The Effect of Venlafaxine on Electrocardiogram Intervals During Treatment for Depression in Older Adults.

ABSTRACT:

Purpose/background

Venlafaxine is a commonly used antidepressant with both serotonergic and noradrenergic activity. There are concerns that it may prolong the corrected QT interval (QTc), and older adults may be at higher risk for this adverse effect, especially at higher dosages of the medication.

Methods/procedures

In this secondary analysis of a prospective clinical trial, we measured changes in QTc and other electrocardiogram (ECG) parameters in 169 adults 60 years or older with a major depressive disorder treated acutely with venlafaxine extended release up to 300 mg daily. We examined the relationship of venlafaxine dosage and ECG parameters, as well as the relationship between serum levels of venlafaxine and ECG parameters.

Findings/results

Venlafaxine exposure

SUBMITTER: Behlke LM 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC7606781 | biostudies-literature | 2020 Nov/Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature