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DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.21088/ijem.2395.311X.9423.11

Abstract

Rhabdomyolysis is a medical emergency characterized by the break down of skeletal muscle leading to the release of intracellular contents into the blood stream, which can lead to acute kidney injury and even death. Drug abuse is one of the potential causes of rhabdomyolysis. This case report describes a 18-year-old male with a history of drug abuse who presented to the emergency department with severe muscle pain, weakness, dark and reduced amount of urine. The patient was diagnosed with rhabdomyolysis, which was likely due to a combination of high doses Marijuana, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan (Corex Syrup), Dicyclomine, Tramadol, Acetaminophen and cigarette smoking over period of 4-5 years, landed up in rhabdomyolysis after joining gym. The patient was immediately started on aggressive intravenous fluid resuscitation, and his urine output and electrolyte levels were closely monitored. Patient required initiation of Hemodialysis over period of 15 days. Patient's muscle pain and weakness gradually improved over the next few days, and he was discharged with a diagnosis of AKI due to Rhabdomyolysis due to drug abuse. Prompt recognition and treatment of rhabdomyolysis are crucial to prevent serious complications, and addiction treatment should be pursued to prevent future episodes of rhabdomyolysis and other drugrelated complications.
 

Keywords : Rhabdomyolysis; Muscle Pain; Substance Abuse; Marijuana; Corex Syrup; CPK; Fluid Resuscitation; Acute Kidney Injury; Hemodialysis; Myoglobinuria; Critical Care; Emergency Management.

Corresponding Author : Kamal Preet Palta,