Is primidone the drug of choice for epileptic patients with QT-prolongation? A comprehensive analysis of literature.

D Christidis, D Kalogerakis, T Y Chan, D Mauri, G Alexiou, A Terzoudi

Index: Seizure 15(1) , 64-6, (2006)

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Abstract

Sudden unexplained/unexpected death (SUDEP) in epilepsy is a major cause of death accounting for 7-17% of the mortality among epileptic patients. Prolongation of QT-interval has been issued as a major mechanism in SUDEP since it is associated with fatal cardiac arrhythmias. This condition may be further precipitated by anti-epileptic treatment. Despite thorough literature research, we did not find any reports suggesting that primidone is responsible for QT-prolongation. On the contrary, all the retrieved reports addressed that the drug shortened QT-interval and corrected signs and symptoms of the underlying disease.