Acquired or “Drug-Induced” Long QT (di-LQT)

A prolonged QT interval can be caused by any number of environmental factors including acute and chronic use of certain prescription medications.  These therapeutics are prescribed despite the risks of QT prolongation as the risk of developing an arrhythmia is outweighed by the benefit of the intervention where limited options are available.  This risk is more severe in people with underlying risk factors including cLQTS.

Congenital Long QT Syndrome (cLQTS) is a rare genetic condition that causes an elongation between the Q and T waves during a heartbeat. The lengthening of these waves can cause unexpected and life-threatening arrhythmias.

Acquired Long QT is triggered by exposure to an environmental stressor, the most common being specific medications, hypokalemia (low potassium), hypomagnesemia (low magnesium) or a combination of a genetic mutation and a medication that prolongs the QT interval.

The current treatment and management of Acquired Long QT, is to identify and halt the triggering medications and treat the underlying conditions or deficiencies, such as in the case of hypokalemia or hypomagnesemia.

Acquired Long QT Syndrome & SGK1:

At Thryv Therapeutics, we are developing a potent SGK1 inhibitor. Our aim is to allow patients to continue to access the medications they need to treat life-threatening conditions, without fear of Acquired Long QT.

If you are concerned about your personal health please speak to a specialist or your health care provider urgently.