QT interval prolongation and torsades de pointes due to a coadministration of metronidazole and amiodarone

Pacing Clin Electrophysiol. 2005 May;28(5):472-3. doi: 10.1111/j.1540-8159.2005.09348.x.

Abstract

This report documents the occurrence of torsades de pointes (TdP) caused by marked QT interval prolongation in the case of a 71-year-old woman receiving both metronidazole and amiodarone for the treatment of pseudomembranous colitis and paroxysmal atrial fibrillation. The case highlights a previously unknown drug interaction. The role of inhibition of cytochrome P-450 CYP3A4 is discussed.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Amiodarone / administration & dosage*
  • Amiodarone / adverse effects
  • Anti-Arrhythmia Agents / administration & dosage*
  • Anti-Arrhythmia Agents / adverse effects
  • Anti-Infective Agents / administration & dosage*
  • Anti-Infective Agents / adverse effects
  • Atrial Fibrillation / drug therapy
  • Drug Interactions
  • Drug Therapy, Combination
  • Enterocolitis, Pseudomembranous / drug therapy
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Long QT Syndrome / chemically induced*
  • Metronidazole / administration & dosage*
  • Metronidazole / adverse effects
  • Torsades de Pointes / chemically induced*

Substances

  • Anti-Arrhythmia Agents
  • Anti-Infective Agents
  • Metronidazole
  • Amiodarone