When your heart’s electrical cycle takes too long to reset after a beat, it’s called QT prolongation, a delay in the heart’s electrical recovery phase that can trigger dangerous irregular heartbeats. Also known as long QT syndrome, it’s not always genetic—often, it’s caused by common medications you might be taking for nausea, infections, or mental health. This isn’t just a lab result. It’s a silent risk that can lead to torsades de pointes, a type of arrhythmia that can cause sudden collapse—or death.
Many drugs quietly stretch the QT interval. Antiemetics, like metoclopramide and domperidone, used for nausea, are classic offenders. So are certain antibiotics, such as erythromycin and azithromycin, and even some antidepressants, including citalopram and escitalopram. These aren’t rare drugs—they’re prescribed millions of times a year. The problem? People often take them with other meds that do the same thing, stacking the risk. Combine a QT-prolonging antibiotic with a heart medication or an antifungal, and you’re playing Russian roulette with your rhythm.
It’s not just about the drugs. Age, kidney or liver problems, low potassium or magnesium, and being female all raise your risk. Older adults on multiple meds are especially vulnerable. That’s why polypharmacy, taking five or more medications at once, is such a red flag. You might not feel anything until it’s too late. No dizziness. No chest pain. Just a sudden, unexpected cardiac arrest.
But you’re not powerless. If you’re on any of these drugs, ask your doctor or pharmacist: "Could this affect my heart rhythm?" Keep a simple symptom diary, tracking dizziness, palpitations, or fainting spells. If you’ve had a recent ECG, ask to see your QT interval number. Know your numbers. Know your meds. And never assume a drug is safe just because it’s over-the-counter or prescribed by someone else.
Below, you’ll find real-world guides on exactly which medications to watch out for, how to spot hidden interactions, and what steps to take before your next prescription. These aren’t theory pieces—they’re practical, tested advice from people who’ve seen the fallout. Whether you’re managing Parkinson’s, dealing with chronic nausea, or just taking a handful of pills daily, this collection gives you the tools to stay safe—without the jargon.
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