Serious arrhythmia in initiators of citalopram, escitalopram, and other selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors: A population-based cohort study in older adults.

ABSTRACT: The selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) citalopram and escitalopram are associated with QT prolongation, which increases the risk of serious arrhythmia. Consequently, regulatory agencies issued safety warnings in 2011. This study aimed to investigate the risk of serious arrhythmia following initiation of citalopram or escitalopram compared to other SSRIs and the risk in the periods before and after the warnings were issued. We conducted a series of nationwide cohort studies emulating a target trial using Danish healthcare register data from January 1, 2002, to December 31, 2016. We included patients (aged ≥65 years) who filled an SSRI prescription with a 1-year washout period before the index date. The outcome was an event of serious arrhythmia. Individuals were followed for a

SUBMITTER: Aakjaer M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC9468567 | biostudies-literature | 2022 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature