Risk of QTc Prolongation in a Cohort of Opioid-Dependent HIV-Infected Patients on Methadone Maintenance Therapy

Abstract

The prevalence of prolonged QTc interval in opioid-dependent HIV-infected patients on methadone maintenance therapy is high. Risk factors for prolongation of the QTc interval are chronic hepatitis C-induced cirrhosis, higher methadone doses, and being ART-naive. Thus, electrocardiographic monitoring is required to minimize cardiovascular morbidity and mortality in this specific HIV group.