Addressing QTc Prolongation With Antipsychotics

QT prolongation is an adverse event associated with the use of many antipsychotics. If not properly monitored and treated, QT prolongation can result in torsades de pointes (TdP), leading to sudden cardiac death. Patients who take antipsychotics may have an increased risk of developing a prolonged QT interval when presenting with multiple risk factors, such as preexisting arrhythmias or electrolyte abnormalities, or if they are on multiple agents that prolong the QT interval. Of the antipsychotics, low-potency typical antipsychotics are often associated with an increased risk of developing a prolonged QT interval and TdP. Pharmacists can recommend appropriate management and assist in monitoring patients at risk for TdP.