Key result
Low-dose methadone use in chronic pain patients was associated with a significantly longer adjusted QTc interval compared to non-users (mean difference 32.5 ms).
Why the study?
Does low-dose methadone increase the QTc interval in adult patients with chronic pain?
Population
130 adult patients at a pain clinic. Key exclusion criteria: history of cardiac pathology.
Comparison
Methadone for chronic pain. vs Control group of chronic pain patients with a…
Design
Cohort
Authors
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May support ECG monitoring in low-dose methadone users; leaves open whether randomized data confirm risk or alter guidelines.
Observational (n=130)
Does low-dose methadone increase the QTc interval in adult patients with chronic pain?
Mean Difference: 32.5 (95% CI 21–44)
Absolute Event Rate: 441% vs 408.5%
p-value: p=<0.0001
Even at low doses (<80 mg/day), methadone use in chronic pain patients is associated with significant QTc prolongation, highlighting the need for ECG monitoring regardless of dose.
Huh et al. (2010) conducted an observational in Chronic pain (n=130). Low-dose methadone vs. No methadone use was evaluated on Adjusted QTc interval duration (MD 32.5, 95% CI 21-44, p=<0.0001). Low-dose methadone use in chronic pain patients was associated with a significantly longer adjusted QTc interval compared to non-users (mean difference 32.5 ms).
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