“FREQUENCY OF ARRHYTHMIAS IN COPD PATIENTS RECEIVING INTRAVENOUS AMINOPHYLLINE”

Abstract

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a prevalent chronic respiratory condition often managed with bronchodilators such as aminophylline. Although effective, intravenous aminophylline possesses a narrow therapeutic index and can lead to cardiac arrhythmias, particularly in elderly or comorbid patients. The present study aimed to determine the frequency and types of arrhythmias occurring among COPD patients receiving intravenous aminophylline at a tertiary care hospital in Pakistan.

Methods: The study was a descriptive case series at the Department of Pulmonology, Khyber Teaching Hospital, Peshawar, conducted from September 2021 to May 2022. One hundred and twenty COPD participants, 40 years of age and older, were selected and required intravenous aminophylline. Constant electrocardiographic (ECG) was considered during and after infusion to identify arrhythmias. Data were examined in SPSS version 25 and reported in the form of frequencies and percentages.

Results: Cardiac arrhythmias occurred in 36 (30%) patients out of 120. Sinus tachycardia (16.7%) was the most prevalent, followed by premature ventricular contractions (6.7%), atrial fibrillation (4.2%), and multifocal atrial tachycardia (2.5%). Older patients (>65 years), smokers, and patients with comorbid conditions like hypertension or diabetes mellitus had a higher number of arrhythmias.

Conclusion: The research showed that arrhythmias were common among COPD patients who were administered intravenous aminophylline. Regular ECG monitoring, careful dosing, and risk evaluation are needed to eliminate severe cardiac issues. Patient safety can be further increased through better hospital governance and digital monitoring systems in cases of aminophylline therapy.