DPP4 inhibitors as a risk factor for QTC interval prolongation among type 2 diabetic patients

Abstract

Abstract Introduction Prolonged QT interval is associated with cardiac arrhythmias and sudden death. This study determined the prevalence of QT intervals corrected for heart rate (QTc) among adults admitted for executive check up in a tertiary hospital with Type 2 diabetes and its associations with metabolic control. Methods This cross-sectional study included 111 adult patients with Type 2 diabetes and 152 control patients admitted for executive check up in a tertiary hospital. A standard 12-lead electrocardiogram was recorded. Corrected QT interval (QTc) of >440 ms was considered abnormally prolonged and QTc >500 ms was considered a high-risk QTc. Demographic, clinical and laboratory data were collected. Independent risk factors for prolonged QTc were assessed using logistic regression analysis. Results QTc duration was statistically significant between subjects with Type 2 diabetes and control subjects (mean duration 434 vs 419 ms; P=0.003). Prevalence of prolonged QTc among type 2 diabetics is 41.4% and 28% in the control group. In the diabetic group 2.7% has a QTc of >500. Independent risk factors for prolonged QTc using univariate logistic regression analysis is presence of diabetes type 2 (OR = 2.00, p=0.008), HBA1c (OR = 1.23, p=0.050) and intake of DPP4 (OR=6.46, (p≤0.001). Independent risk factors for prolonged QTc using multivariate logistic regression analysis is intake of DPP4 inhibitors (OR=6.26, p=0.023). Conclusion There is no significant correlation between HBA1C and QTc interval. The prevalence of prolonged QTc is relatively high among diabetics but the prevalence of high risk QTc interval is relatively low. Intake of DPP4 inhibitors is an independent risk factor in QT prolongation. Funding Acknowledgement Type of funding sources: None.