Title:Analysis of QTc Interval during Levofloxacin Prescription in Cardiac Patients with Pneumonia
Volume: 15
Issue: 2
Author(s): Lida Shojaei, Mohammad Ruzbahani, Shiva Khajavian, Soodeh Shahsavari, Negin Tamasoki, Mina Rajabian, Farzaneh Moradi and Foroud Shahbazi*
Affiliation:
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center, School of Pharmacy, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah,Iran
Keywords:
Arrhythmias, cardiovascular drugs, drug safety, fluoroquinolones, pneumonia, QT prolongation.
Abstract:
Background: Medications induced QT prolongation could cause ventricular arrhythmia,
torsade de pointes, and death.
Objective: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the magnitude of QTc interval prolongation as
a result of levofloxacin treatment in patients admitted to cardiology wards.
Methods: This was a cross-sectional study conducted in the coronary care units and general wards
of the Imam Ali Heart Hospital in Kermanshah, Iran. The QTc interval was determined at baseline
and after 72 hours of levofloxacin administration. Changes in the QTc interval before and after the
levofloxacin prescription were determined.
Results: The mean age of recruited patients was 63.26 ± 14.56 years. More than 80% of patients
who received levofloxacin experienced QTc prolongation. The QTc interval was increased significantly
after levofloxacin administration (15.68 ± 26.84 milliseconds) (p<0.001). These changes remained
significant after excluding medications with QTc lengthening properties (p<0.001).
Conclusion: Treatment with levofloxacin in patients with heart disease increases the risk of QT
prolongation.
