Conclusions
Despite equipoise regarding the benefit of
hydroxychloroquine/azithromycin treatment for COVID-19 infection, these
medications continue to be used in large clinical trials both in the US
and across the world. This study demonstrates that the risk of QTc
prolongation by these medications is enhanced in the setting of renal
failure, older age, baseline QTc prolongation and the concomitant use of
other QT-prolonging medications in patients with severe COVID-19
infection. A better understanding of these factors associated with QTc
prolongation is important for safe administration of these medications,
especially in light of data showing low efficacy in COVID-19 treatment.