Several drugs can cause hypokalemia, which is a condition characterized by low potassium levels in the blood. According to the provided reference, some of the most common culprits belong to the following drug classes:
Medications That Can Cause Hypokalemia
-
Diuretics: These medications increase urine production, often leading to the loss of potassium. Specific examples include:
- Acetazolamide
- Bumetanide
- Chlorthalidone
- Ethacrynic acid
- Furosemide
- Indapamide
- Metolazone
- Thiazides
- Torsemide
-
Insulin: High doses or overdoses of insulin can also cause hypokalemia, due to intracellular potassium uptake.
-
Mineralocorticoids and Glucocorticoids: These are types of steroids that can also contribute to hypokalemia. Examples include:
- Hydrocortisone
- Fludrocortisone
- Prednisone
Here's a summary table based on the reference:
| Medication Class | Examples of Common Drugs |
|---|---|
| Diuretics | Acetazolamide, Bumetanide, Chlorthalidone, Ethacrynic acid, Furosemide, Indapamide, Metolazone, Thiazides, Torsemide |
| Insulin | High dose (overdose) |
| Mineralocorticoids and glucocorticoids | Hydrocortisone, Fludrocortisone, Prednisone |
Understanding Hypokalemia and Drug-Induced Causes
It is important to understand that these medications can cause hypokalemia due to different mechanisms. Diuretics increase potassium excretion, high doses of insulin shifts potassium into cells, and certain steroids affect the handling of potassium.
Clinical Significance
Hypokalemia can cause various symptoms, including muscle weakness, fatigue, heart palpitations and other cardiac problems. Monitoring potassium levels, especially when taking these medications, is critical.
