[Weight loss pills purchased on the internet as the cause of ventricular fibrillation].

Abstract

We present a case regarding a 25-year-old woman who had been taking unauthorized weight loss pills prior to a sudden cardiac arrest from which she was resuscitated by paramedics. Her initial electrocardiogram revealed a prolonged corrected QT-interval (QTc). During admission she developed torsades de pointes and was treated with magnesium sulphate and temporary pacing. An electrophysiological study, a coronary angiogram and genetic testing for long QT syndrome all revealed normal results. After cessation of the pills the QTc normalized, and two weeks later she was discharged.

• Authors: Manan Pareek, Rasmus Lederballe Pedersen, Trond Paul Leren, Henrik Kjærulf Jensen
• Journal: Ugeskrift for laeger (Ugeskr Laeger) Vol. 175 Issue 11 Pg. 739-40 (Mar 11 2013) ISSN: 1603-6824 [Electronic] Denmark
• Vernacular Title: Slankepiller købt på internettet som årsag til ventrikelflimren.
• PMID: 23480888 (Publication Type: Case Reports, Journal Article)

Chemical References

• Anti-Obesity Agents

Topics

• Adult
• Anti-Obesity Agents (adverse effects)
• Electrocardiography
• Female
• Heart Arrest (chemically induced)
• Humans
• Internet
• Ventricular Fibrillation (chemically induced)
• Weight Loss (drug effects)