Abstract
Evidence has emerged in recent years on methadones cardiac arrhythogenic potential – i.e. QT prolongation and Torsades de Pointes (TdP). Given the potentially fatal consequences of these adverse effects, clinicians need to be alert to avoid this going unrecognised and untreated. In this paper, we briefly discuss normal cardiac conduction and electrocardiogram (ECG) waveforms, and look at theories of methadone – induced QT prolongation and TdP. We then present a summary of the existing evidence base for methadone – associated TdP and offer guidance for the clinician on the need for cardiac screening of patients on methadone treatment.
Keywords: Electrocardiogram, guidelines, heart, methadone, QT prolongation, risk, Torsades de Pointes
Related Books
Botanicals and Natural Bioactives: Prevention and Treatment of Diseases
Medicinal Chemistry of Drugs Affecting Cardiovascular and Endocrine Systems
Frontiers In Medicinal Chemistry
Frontiers in Natural Product Chemistry
Alkaloids and Other Nitrogen-Containing Derivatives
Potential Health Benefits of Biologically Active Peptides Derived from Underutilized Grains: Recent Advances in their Isolation, Identification, Bioactivity and Molecular Analysis
Terpenes
Flavonoids and Phenolics
Therapeutic Use of Plant Secondary Metabolites
Therapeutic Implications of Natural Bioactive Compounds
19