Yeungnam Univ J Med.  2021 Jan;38(1):65-69. 10.12701/yujm.2020.00269.

Development of donepezil-induced hypokalemia following treatment of cognitive impairment

• Kim D
• Yoon HE
• Park HS
• Shin SJ
• Choi BS
• Kim BS
• Ban TH

• KMID: 2512069
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.12701/yujm.2020.00269

Abstract

Donepezil is a cholinesterase inhibitor used extensively to treat Alzheimer disease. The increased cholinergic activity is associated with adverse effects, therefore gastrointestinal symptoms, including nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, are common. Hypokalemia is a rare adverse event that occurs in less than 1% of donepezil-treated patients. Although hypokalemia of mild and moderate grade does not present serious signs and symptoms, severe hypokalemia often results in prolonged hospitalization and mortality. Herein, we report a case of hypokalemia developed after the initiation of donepezil therapy for cognitive impairment.

Keyword

Alzheimer disease; Cognitive dysfunction; Donepezil; Hypokalemia

Figure

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  Fig. 1. Abdominal computed tomography scan. (A) Both adrenal glands (arrows) show no abnormalities. (B) Both kidneys (arrows) show no abnormal findings.

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  Fig. 2. Summary of serum potassium level, potassium supplementation, total intake, and total output per day. IV, intravenous; PO, per oral.

Reference

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