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QTc prolongation
Pronunciation: Q-T-C prolongation
Abnormal lengthening of heart's electrical recovery phase, a serious side effect of methadone and other medications.
Full Definition
QTc prolongation refers to an abnormal extension of the corrected QT interval on electrocardiogram, representing delayed cardiac repolarization. In addiction medicine, this is a significant concern with methadone treatment, as the medication can cause dose-dependent QTc prolongation, potentially leading to dangerous arrhythmias like torsades de pointes. Regular ECG monitoring is recommended for patients on methadone, particularly those on higher doses or with cardiac risk factors.
Usage
Usage note: Always specify 'QTc' (corrected) rather than 'QT'; include normal values for context.
In Context
- "The patient developed QTc prolongation at 480ms, requiring methadone dose reduction." — Cardiology consultation report
- "Annual ECGs monitor for QTc prolongation in all methadone patients." — Clinical protocol
Also known as
prolonged QTc
QT prolongation
Contrasted with
normal QTc
shortened QTc
Don't confuse with
QT interval
arrhythmia
cardiac toxicity