Atorvastatin induced rhabdomyolysis: A case report

Year 2022, Volume: 8 Issue: 1, 46 - 53, 01.01.2022

Alpaslan Mert Ömer Faruk Tekin

Abstract

Background: Rhabdomyolysis is a clinical condition occurring due to direct or indirect injury to skeletal muscles. This condition is precipitated by a number factors like trauma, crush injury, strenuous exercise, etc. Some of the widely prescribed drugs like statins are known to induce rhabdomyolysis especially when coadministered with other drugs like fibrates, macrolide antibiotics, calcium channel blockers, aspirins, etc.
Case presentation: Here we present a case of rhabdomyolysis (creatinine phosphokinase 6250 IU/L) in a 58-year-old male following intake of atorvastatin, benidipine and aspirin. The patient was managed conservatively on outpatient basis with withdrawal of the offending drug and fluid therapy. He responded well with normalization of CPK (creatinine phosphokinase) level (125 IU/L) within one week. To conclude both family physicians and patients should be aware of this side-effect associated with statins.
Conclusion: As prompt identification of the symptoms and seeking medical attention on the patient’s part is very important for the final outcome, besides prompt diagnosis and management, the family physicians must give importance to patient education while prescribing the drugs

Keywords

Creatinine phosphokinase (CPK), Rhabdomyolysis, Statin

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