Ritonavir-boosted atazanavir, methadone, and ventricular tachycardia: 2 case reports

Clin Infect Dis. 2008 Aug 1;47(3):e36-8. doi: 10.1086/589869.

Abstract

We describe 2 cases of symptomatic ventricular tachycardia associated with prolonged QT interval. Both patients were infected with the human immunodeficiency virus and were receiving treatment with ritonavir-boosted atazanavir and methadone. Discontinuation of atazanavir in both cases resulted in a reduction in the QT interval and cessation of arrhythmia. We concluded that atazanavir contributed to prolonged corrected QT interval and subsequent ventricular tachycardia.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Atazanavir Sulfate
  • Drug Therapy, Combination
  • Electrocardiography / drug effects
  • HIV Infections / drug therapy*
  • HIV Protease Inhibitors / adverse effects*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Methadone / therapeutic use
  • Middle Aged
  • Narcotics / therapeutic use
  • Oligopeptides / adverse effects*
  • Pyridines / adverse effects*
  • Ritonavir / therapeutic use
  • Tachycardia, Ventricular / chemically induced*

Substances

  • HIV Protease Inhibitors
  • Narcotics
  • Oligopeptides
  • Pyridines
  • Atazanavir Sulfate
  • Ritonavir
  • Methadone