Can Seroquel cause long QT?

Hello, I'm an expert in the field of pharmacology. When discussing the potential side effects of medications, it's important to consider the comprehensive profile of the drug, including its mechanism of action and the clinical data available. Seroquel, known generically as quetiapine, is an atypical antipsychotic medication. It is used to treat various psychiatric conditions, including schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. One of the concerns with certain medications, especially those that can affect cardiac function, is the potential to cause a long QT interval, which is a measure of the time between the start of the Q wave and the end of the T wave in the heart's electrical cycle as measured on an electrocardiogram (ECG). The long QT syndrome is a heart rhythm condition that can lead to a potentially life-threatening abnormal heart rhythm. It is often associated with certain genetic mutations, but it can also be triggered by medications that affect the electrical activity of the heart. Now, regarding quetiapine, it is not typically listed among the drugs that are known to cause a long QT syndrome. However, like all medications, it can have a wide range of effects on different individuals, and it is always possible for unintended side effects to occur. It is important for patients to be monitored by healthcare professionals, especially when starting a new medication, to ensure that any potential side effects are identified and managed appropriately. In summary, while quetiapine is not commonly associated with causing a long QT interval, it is always important to be aware of the potential side effects and to discuss any concerns with a healthcare provider.

This warning was based on postmarketing reports of QT interval prolongation among patients who overdosed on quetiapine, had a concurrent illness, or received medications known to cause electrolyte abnormalities or to cause QT interval prolongation [Anonymous, 2011]. ... We now extend our review to quetiapine.