Letter to the Editor

Testosterone and QT Interval

Authors: Saeed Ahmed, MBBS, Supawat Ratanapo, MD, Wisit Cheungpasitporn, MD

Abstract

To the Editor


We read with interest the article by Higgins et al published in the December 2012 issue of the Southern Medical Journal.1 The authors clearly describe testosterone-induced arrhythmia; however, they claim that testosterone can prolong the QT interval. We are of another opinion. The effect of testosterone on electrocardiogram (ECG) parameters is a matter of debate, with some studies suggesting no effect on QT interval, whereas others suggest lowering QTc (corrected) interval with increased testosterone levels.2 We, therefore, advise caution regarding testosterone and its effect on QT prolongation.

This content is limited to qualifying members.

Existing members, please login first

If you have an existing account please login now to access this article or view purchase options.

Purchase only this article ($25)

Create a free account, then purchase this article to download or access it online for 24 hours.

Purchase an SMJ online subscription ($75)

Create a free account, then purchase a subscription to get complete access to all articles for a full year.

Purchase a membership plan (fees vary)

Premium members can access all articles plus recieve many more benefits. View all membership plans and benefit packages.

References

1. Higgins JP, Heshmat A, Higgins CL. Androgen abuse and increased cardiac risk. South Med J 2012; 105: 670–674.
 
2. Koivisto AP. Testosterone shortens QT interval on ECG in both genders and may underlie lower incidence of torsades de pointes in males. Acta Physiol (Oxf) 2006; 188: 151.
 
3. van Noord C, Dörr M, Sturkenboom MC, et al. The association of serum testosterone levels and ventricular repolarization. Eur J Epidemiol 2010; 25: 21–28.
 
4. Pecori Giraldi F, Manzoni G, Michailidis J, et al. High prevalence of prolonged QT interval in obese hypogonadal males. Obesity (Silver Spring) 2011; 19: 2015–2018.
 
5. White CM, Ferraro-Borgida MJ, Moyna NM, et al. The effect of pharmacokinetically guided acute intravenous testosterone administration on electrocardiographic and blood pressure variables. J Clin Pharmacol 1999; 39: 1038–1043.