Conference paper

THE IMPACT OF GUIDANCE ON CITALOPRAM’S EFFECTS ON THE QT PERIOD ON THE PRACTICE OF CLINICIANS

James Austin ; School of Clinical Medicine University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK ; Clare College Cambridge, The University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
Keonwoo Yi ; School of Clinical Medicine University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK; Downing College Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
Mark Agius ; Clare College Cambridge, The University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK; Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK ; South Essex Partnership University Foundation Trust, UK
Rashid Zaman ; Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK ; South Essex Partnership University Foundation Trust, UK

Abstract

In 2011, the FDA published guidelines regarding the prescribing of citalopram and escitalopram following publication of
evidence showing prolongation of the QT period at therapeutic doses. This paper looked at the impact of these guidelines on the
prescribing practices of clinicians in one centre. It showed that clinicians have changed practices in accordance with the guidelines
for citalopram but no clear patterns were seen in escitalopram or when looking individually at thespecific guidelines for patients
over 60 years of age. There was no evidence of increased concordance by clinicians with the guidelines in patients taking other QT
prolonging drugs who are at additional risk. Overall, the guidelines have made an impact on practice but this is partial and2% of all
patients still remain on regimes that do not fit the guidelines. The possible reasons for this are explored.

Keywords

citalopram; escitalopram; QT interval; QTc; clinicians; prescribing; practices; guidelines; guidance; recommendations; SSRI

Hrčak ID:

265723

URI

https://hrcak.srce.hr/265723

Publication date:

5.11.2014.

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