ECG pattern among adult patients on antipsychotic medications at the university of port Harcourt teaching hospital, River State, Nigeria

Background: Antipsychotic medications treat neuropsychiatric disorders like Schizophrenia and Bipolar disorder. Despite their symptom management benefits, they carry cardiovascular risks. Electrocardiogram (ECG) monitoring is crucial for detecting abnormalities. This research aims to identify and understand these risks, aiding healthcare professionals in implementing effective monitoring for better patient outcomes. Methods: A retrospective study on subjects who are patients on Antipsychotic medications from the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital (UPTH). Results: In a study with 100 patients on antipsychotic medications, 68% displayed abnormal ECG changes during treatment, while 32% had normal patterns. Left Ventricular Hypertrophy (LVH) and Atrial Enlargements were common, affecting 30% and 26% respectively, while QT interval prolongation was rare (2%). Risperidone, Sodium Valproate, and Trihexyphenidyl showed the most abnormal ECG changes, whereas Olanzapine, Fluoxetine, and Escitalopram were relatively safer. Conclusion: ECG monitoring is an essential component of the management of patients on antipsychotic drugs. It enables the early detection of QT interval prolongation and other cardiac abnormalities, allowing for timely interventions and personalized treatment plans. Our study showed just 2% of the patient had QT interval prolongation, however Left Ventricular Hypertrophy was a common finding in the ECG of the patients, 30%.