Acute Rapid QTc Changes Following Chloroquine Overdose With No Suicidal Intent

Abstract

We report a 39 year-old male with unintentional chloroquine overdose without any suicidal intention. Marked QTc prolongation 
of 0.508sec was observed acutely though patient’s total ingested dose was lower than most fatal doses reported in literature. This 
range of QTc carries a predisposition to potentially fatal ventricular arrhythmias. Serial electrocardiograms (ECGs) demonstrated 
gradual return of QTc towards normal while patient was on observation without any indication for active intervention. We 
recommend that in the event of chloroquine overdose, close monitoring of the cardiovascular system should be done even in 
apparently stable individuals.