Iatrogenic Hyperkalemia Induced by Hypermagnesemia From Administration of Laxatives in a Patient With Gastroparesis
Magnesium-containing drugs such as magnesium citrate are popular over-the-counter laxatives used to treat constipation. Although generally well tolerated, excessive intake can result in potentially dangerous electrolyte abnormalities. Of these abnormalities, hyperkalemia is one that is heavily under...
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| Main Authors: | , , , , , , , , |
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| Format: | Article |
| Language: | English |
| Published: |
American College of Physicians
2022-10-01
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| Series: | Annals of Internal Medicine: Clinical Cases |
| Online Access: | https://www.acpjournals.org/doi/10.7326/aimcc.2022.0634 |
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| Summary: | Magnesium-containing drugs such as magnesium citrate are popular over-the-counter laxatives used to treat constipation. Although generally well tolerated, excessive intake can result in potentially dangerous electrolyte abnormalities. Of these abnormalities, hyperkalemia is one that is heavily underreported. We report an elderly woman who presented for gastroparesis flare-up and constipation. She was given magnesium citrate and subsequently developed hypermagnesemia, which resulted in hyperkalemia. By presenting this case, we hope to increase awareness of this heavily underreported side effect of magnesium-based laxatives, especially in the setting of gastrointestinal disturbances that may affect the absorption of these electrolytes. |
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| ISSN: | 2767-7664 |