Acute rhabdomyolysis following synthetic cannabinoid ingestion

• Type of Material: Article
• Authors: Demilade A. Adedinsewo, Grady Memorial Hospital; Oluwaseun Odewole, Grady Memorial Hospital; Todd Taylor, Emory University
• Language: English
• Date: 2016-06-08
• Publisher: Medknow Publications
• Publication Version: Final Published Version
• Copyright Statement: © 2016 North American Journal of Medical Sciences
• License: Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 3.0 Unported
• Final Published Version (URL): http://dx.doi.org/10.4103/1947-2714.185038
• Title of Journal or Parent Work: North American Journal of Medical Sciences
• ISSN: 2250-1541
• Volume: 8
• Issue: 6
• Start Page: 256
• End Page: 258
• Keywords: stimulant drugs; K2; rhabdomyolysis; synthetic cannabinoids
• Research Categories: Health Sciences, Medicine and Surgery

Abstract

Context: Novel psychoactive substances, including synthetic cannabinoids, are becoming increasingly popular, with more patients being seen in the emergency room following acute ingestion. These substances have been associated with a wide range of adverse effects. However, identification of complications, clinical toxicity, and management remain challenging. Case Report: We present the case of a young African-American male who developed severe agitation and bizarre behavior following acute K2 ingestion. Laboratory studies revealed markedly elevated serum creatine phosphokinase (CPK) with normal renal function. The patient was managed with aggressive intravenous (IV) fluid hydration and treatment of underlying psychiatric illness. Conclusion: We recommend the routine evaluation of renal function and CPK levels with early initiation of IV hydration among patients who present to the emergency department following acute ingestion of synthetic cannabinoids to identify potential complications early as well as institute early supportive therapy.