Remdesivir-Induced Bradycardia

South Med J. 2023 Mar;116(3):317-320. doi: 10.14423/SMJ.0000000000001519.

Abstract

Remdesivir, a viral RNA-dependent RNA polymerase inhibitor, found extensive use in coronavirus disease 2019-infected patients because it curbs the viral load expansion. Among patients hospitalized as a result of lower respiratory tract infection, remdesivir proved to improve recovery time; however, remdesivir also can induce significant cytotoxic effects on cardiac myocytes. In this narrative review, we discuss the pathophysiological mechanism of remdesivir-induced bradycardia and diagnostic and management strategies for these patients. We conclude that further research is necessary to understand better the mechanism of bradycardia in coronavirus disease 2019 patients with or without cardiovascular disorder treated with remdesivir.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Bradycardia / chemically induced
  • COVID-19 Drug Treatment
  • COVID-19*
  • Cardiovascular Diseases*
  • Humans

Substances

  • remdesivir