Effects of cisapride on QTC interval in neonates

Abstract

Aim - Prospective survey of the effects of cisapride on QTc interval in neonates given cisapride. Methods-QTc interval was determined just before and 2.9 (0.9) days after outset of the treatment in 49 neonates trea ted with cisapride between I August 1995 and 29 February 1996. Results -C isapride significantly increased QTc interval (p = 0.0001), and this was higher when birthweight or gestational age were lower. The prolongation of QTc interval above the arbitrary value of 0.450 (n = 7) was clinically asymptomatic and was significantly more common in the infants born with a gestational age ≤ 33 weeks (n = 6). Conclusion - The findings indicate that cisapride accumulates in less mature neonates. Further pharmacokinetic studies are needed.