Key result
Donepezil use is linked to ~342% higher odds of QTc prolongation versus matched controls.
Why the study?
Cholinesterase inhibitors such as donepezil can cause cholinergically mediated QT prolongation that may lead to life-threatening arrhythmias.
Cross-Sectional (n=114)
No
Odds Ratio: 4.42 (95% CI 1.5–13)
Absolute Event Rate: 30% vs 9%
p-value: p=0.004
May warrant QTc monitoring with donepezil; leaves open causal effects on arrhythmias and need for prospective trials.
Background:Cholinesterase inhibitors such as donepezil are used in the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease. Patients taking cholinesterase inhibitors can develop cholinergically mediated QT prolongation, which may lead to life-threatening arrhythmias. In this study we investigated the corrected QT interval (QTc) of patients taking donepezil.
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Kuwahata et al. (2021) conducted a cross-sectional in Alzheimer's disease (n=114). Donepezil vs. Age- and sex-matched controls not taking donepezil was evaluated on Prolonged QTc (>0.450 s in males and >0.460 s in females) (OR 4.42, 95% CI 1.50-13.0, p=0.004). Donepezil use was associated with a significantly higher prevalence of QTc prolongation compared to matched controls (30% vs. 9%, OR 4.42).
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