A Runny Nose and Cardiac Arrest

In 1985, Seldane (generic name: terfenadine) emerged on the market as the first non-drowsy antihistamine. It was used for minor colds and allergies. It became apparent that it had some severe interactions with certain medications, such as anti-fungal medicines, antibiotics, and ulcer medicines. Some patients experienced allergic reactions, seizures, arrhthmias, and syncope. In rare cases severe cardiovascular issues occured, including ventricular arrhthmias, cardiac arrest, electrocardiographic QT prolongation, and death. Due to these serious complications, Seldane was taken off the market in 1998.

This is of interest to me because in 1990, my dad was taking Seldane for a minor hayfever reaction (rhinitis). One night, he went into cardiac arrest and was rushed to the hospital. His heart was not beating for 32 minutes while the doctors tried to revive him. They were finally able to start his heart beating again and implanted a defibrillator to handle further complications. He had no brain damage or lasting effects (besides the device)! This is one of the main reasons I want to become a biomedical engineer (hopefully in the cardiac device area).

http://www.rxlist.com/seldane-drug.htm

Amy Oliver