The QT interval prolongation potential of anticancer and supportive drugs: a comprehensive overview

Eline L. Giraud, Kaylee R.M. Ferrier, Nienke A.G. Lankheet, Ingrid M.E. Desar, Neeltje Steeghs, Rypko J. Beukema, Nielka P. van Erp, Elise J. Smolders*

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

Abstract

Patients with cancer are prone to prolongation of the corrected QT interval (QTc) due to the use of anticancer drugs with QTc-prolonging potential in combination with electrolyte imbalances caused by, for example, gastrointestinal side-effects. However, most anticancer drugs were approved with little information on their QTc-prolonging potential and the added risk of torsade de pointes. The absence of this information on the drug label poses a considerable challenge to clinicians regarding the measures that need to be taken to safely start anticancer treatment. In this Review, we provide a comprehensive overview of the evidence for the QTc-prolonging properties of 205 anticancer drugs and 14 antiemetic drugs available from drug labels, assessment reports, and published studies. We classify the drugs as low-risk, moderate-risk, or high-risk for QTc prolongation. We also discuss the clinical relevance of these findings and include practical recommendations to guide clinicians to select the drugs with the least QTc-prolonging properties and to adequately monitor susceptible patients.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)e406-e415
JournalThe Lancet Oncology
Volume23
Issue number9
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Sept 2022
Externally publishedYes

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