Sertindole causes distinct electrocardiographic T-wave morphology changes.

Sertindole's propensity to prolong the QT interval relates to blockade of the KCNH2 (HERG) encoded Ikr potassium channel, but there has been limited detailed data on T-wave morphology changes. Digital 12-lead ECG was recorded at baseline and at steady-state in 37 patients switched to sertindole. ECG was analyzed for quantitative T-wave morphology changes and Fridericia-corrected QT duration (QTcF). Prominent T-wave morphology changes occurred during sertindole treatment and in some cases without concomitant prolongation of the QTcF interval. Four patients developed notched T-waves during sertindole treatment. Mean QTc prolongation was 19 ms. The mean effect size was higher for T-wave morphology combination score (MCS) (ES=1.92; 95% CI: 1.35-2.49) compared to the mean effect size for QTcF (ES=0.88; 95% CI: 0.52-1.24). The use of T-wave morphology analysis may become clinically relevant, particularly if shown to be associated with drug-induced arrhythmia risk.

[Treatment of psychotic depression]. / Behandling af psykotisk depression.

Psychotic depression is frequent among hospitalized patients diagnosed with major depression. Patients diagnosed with this type of depression display a number of specific characteristics. They have a higher risk of suicidal behaviour, they have a prolonged and more severe clinical picture and subsequently they have an increased risk of relapse. Studies show that monotherapy with antidepressants is more effective than antipsychotic monotherapy. Electroconvulsive therapy remains the most effective treatment, while tricyclic antidepressants in monotherapy are also effective. An antipsychotic drug can be added if no effect of monotherapeutic antidepressant treatment is observed within two to four weeks.