May 4, 2020

Risk of QT Interval Prolongation Associated With Use of Hydroxychloroquine With or Without Concomitant Azithromycin Among Hospitalized Patients Testing Positive for Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19)

Category: Article Summary

Topic: Testing and Treatment

• Use of hydroxychloroquine can increase the risk of corrected QT (QTc) prolongation, a type of cardiac arrhythmia. Among 90 patients in an academic tertiary care center in Boston with at least one positive test for SARS-CoV-2, QTc was significantly longer after initiation of hydroxychloroquine, and this effect stronger for patients receiving both hydroxychloroquine and azithromycin. The authors recommend judicious use of hydroxychloroquine, along with monitoring of QTc and concomitant medications. 

Mercuro et al. (May 1, 2020). Risk of QT Interval Prolongation Associated With Use of Hydroxychloroquine With or Without Concomitant Azithromycin Among Hospitalized Patients Testing Positive for Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19). JAMA Cardiology. https://doi.org/10.1001/jamacardio.2020.1834