When your heart’s electrical system gets thrown off, it can spiral into torsades de pointes, a rare but life-threatening type of irregular heartbeat that can lead to sudden cardiac arrest. Also known as polymorphic ventricular tachycardia, it doesn’t just happen out of nowhere—it’s often tied to something you’re taking, something missing in your body, or both.
This rhythm problem usually shows up when the heart’s QT interval gets too long—a measure of how long it takes the heart to recharge between beats. That delay can be caused by certain antibiotics, antipsychotics, or even some heart meds. For example, drugs like levofloxacin, a common antibiotic used for infections, have been linked to QT prolongation and, in rare cases, torsades. The same goes for chlorpromazine, a first-generation antipsychotic used for schizophrenia and severe nausea. Even something as simple as low potassium or low magnesium can tip the balance, especially if you’re already on a medication that affects your heart’s rhythm.
It’s not just about the drug—it’s about who’s taking it. Women, older adults, people with heart disease, and those on multiple medications are at higher risk. You might not feel anything until it’s too late. Some people get dizzy, faint, or have palpitations. Others just collapse. That’s why knowing your meds and your body matters. If you’ve been prescribed a new drug and start feeling off, don’t wait. Check if it’s on the list of QT-prolonging drugs. Ask your doctor about your electrolytes. Keep track of any changes in how your heart feels.
What you’ll find in the posts below isn’t just a list of drugs. It’s a practical guide to spotting the ones that could put you at risk. From comparing antibiotics like levofloxacin to safer alternatives, to understanding when to stop a medication immediately, these articles give you the tools to ask the right questions. You’ll see how drugs like clindamycin, dapsone, and even pain relievers can interact with your heart rhythm. And you’ll learn what to do if you’re on a medication that could trigger torsades de pointes—before it’s an emergency.
