Nilotinib & QT Prolongation

QT interval prolongation may occur, which may in turn result in torsades de pointes, leading to syncope, seizure, and/or death. Sudden deaths have been reported (0.1-1%); ventricular repolarization abnormalities may have contributed.


Prolongation is concentration-dependent. Significant prolongation may occur if taken inappropriately with food, and/or strong CYP3A4 inhibitors, and/or medicines with a known potential to prolong QT interval. The presence of hypokalemia and hypomagnesemia may further enhance this effect.

Drugs that prolong QT interval should be avoided due to the risk of potentially fatal arrhythmias.