Should QT-prolonging drugs be prescribed to type 1 diabetic patients?

The mechanisms for QT-prolongation during hyperglycaemia are not well understood. As poorly controlled blood glucose levels are common in patients with Type 1 diabetes, it is important to understand how QT-prolonging drugs will act during episodes of hyperglycaemia. The research at the Richmond Research Institute suggests there is an additive effect of hyperglycaemia and medication on the QT-interval. Therefore, caution should be used when prescribing QT-prolonging drugs for diabetic patients.

Richmond Research Institute is a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to drug safety research to improve and save lives. Our world-class research aims to explore the usefulness of potential new medicines, assesses the safety of existing medicinal products, and provides the scientific insights to improve strategies for personalised medicines.