risk of potentially fatal arrhythmias with erythromycin

November 2004

There's growing concern about the risk of potentially fatal arrhythmias with erythromycin.

We usually think of erythromycin as fairly innocuous.

But high levels can prolong the QT interval...leading to serious arrhythmias and even sudden cardiac death.

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Table of Contents

New treatments are being used for skin infections
The flu vaccine shortage will put new emphasis on FluMist and antivirals
Anticoagulants stop warfarin prior to surgery or other invasive procedures
Anticoagulants The new oral anticoagulant Exanta (ximelagatran) won't be replacing warfarin any time soon
Asthma single IM dose of methylprednisolone instead of oral steroids
NSAIDs Lots of patients are asking about alternatives to Vioxx
Pediatrics Mild croup will be treated more frequently with dexamethasone
Pediatrics Nuvo lotion for head lice
Osteoporosis Do carbonated beverages cause bone loss
Women's Health Diflucan once a WEEK to PREVENT recurrent vaginal yeast infections
Supplements if prickly pear cactus can prevent hangovers
Neurology & Pain Parcopa, a new carbidopa/levodopa tablet that dissolves on the tongue
Neurology & Pain Acomplia (rimonabant), a promising new drug for obesity, smoking cessation, and high cholesterol
Gastroenterology Celiac disease (sprue) is more common than previously thought
Cardiology risk of potentially fatal arrhythmias with erythromycin