An exaggerated presentation of salbutamol induced hypokalaemia

Abstract

Background: Generalized weakness is a common complaintwith numerous differential diagnosis. However, it is not common to find salbutamol causing an exaggerated generalized weakness mimicking Guillain-Bairré Syndrome (GBS).

Aim: To present a case of generalized weakness associated with hypokalaemia in a patient receiving salbutamol.

Setting: Federal Medical Centre, Yenagoa.

Case Report: We present a 24-year-old woman who presented with generalized weakness after use of Salbutamol.

Conclusion: Generalized weakness can occur as a result of salbutamol induced hypokalemia. There should be thus a high index of suspicion on the part ofthe physician for any patient on salbutamol presenting with generalized weakness.

Keywords: Salbutamol, potassium, metabolic acidosis, generalized weakness