title: Probable quetiapine-mediated prolongation of the QT interval.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  QT prolongation can occur with both first- (FGA) and second-generation antipsychotics (SGA). QT prolongation was identified in an adult patient who presented to the emergency room with schizophrenia, fluid and electrolyte imbalances, and pneumonia. Quetiapine, an SGA, was a component of the pharmacotherapy regimen. Based on the Naranjo adverse drug reaction probability scale rating criteria, a probable causal association was made.
  
  
  METHODS
  PubMed and Ovid were searched using the terms antipsychotic, psychotropic, QT interval, corrected QT interval (QTc) prolongation, and quetiapine. References were examined for additional articles related to antipsychotic drugs and the QT interval.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  In this patient, the use of quetiapine was identified as a contributing factor in QT prolongation. Prior QT prolongation was experienced with ziprasidone, another SGA. The antidepressant and dose remained consistent throughout the inpatient course of treatment. Other risk factors in this patient included hypokalemia, dehydration, pneumonia, age, gender, and concurrent usage of an antidepressant. Dual psychiatric diagnoses, preexisting cardiovascular disease, and electrolyte disturbances may increase this risk potential.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Psychiatric patients may be more at risk of cardiovascular complications, such as QT interval prolongation. The pharmacist can help evaluate risk factors and provide input into the care of all patients, particularly those identified as at risk.
authors.affiliation: Department of Pharmacy Practice, Clinical and Administrative Sciences-Tulsa, University of Oklahoma College of Pharmacy, Tulsa, OK 74135, USA.
authors.forename: Nasim
authors.initials: N
authors.lastname: Aghaienia
authors.forename: Nancy C
authors.initials: NC
authors.lastname: Brahm
authors.forename: Kyla M
authors.initials: KM
authors.lastname: Lussier
authors.forename: Nicole B
authors.initials: NB
authors.lastname: Washington
mesh_terms: D014150:Antipsychotic Agents / Q000009:adverse effects*; D003987:Dibenzothiazepines / Q000009:adverse effects*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008133:Long QT Syndrome / Q000139:chemically induced* / Q000150:complications; D008875:Middle Aged; D000069348:Quetiapine Fumarate; D012307:Risk Factors; D012559:Schizophrenia / Q000150:complications / Q000188:drug therapy*
chemical_list: D014150:Antipsychotic Agents; D003987:Dibenzothiazepines; D000069348:Quetiapine Fumarate