A Rare Case of Rhabdomyolysis Probably Due to Donepezil

Abstract

Rhabdomyolysis ranges from an asymptomatic illness with the elevations in the Creatine Kinase (CK) levels to a lifethreatening condition associated with electrolyte imbalances, Acute Renal Failure (ARF). The causes of nontraumatic rhabdomyolysis may include defects in skeletal muscle metabolism, electrolyte disturbances, alcohol intoxication, illicit drug use, infections and various medications. Donepezil is a cognitive-enhancing medication for treating dementia of Alzheimer’s disease. We present a rare case of acute kidney injury secondary to rhabdomyolysis probably induced by donepezil. The possibility of a drug induced rhabdomyolisis should also be considered in the differential diagnosis after excluding other causes when a patient having ARF associated with elevations in CK levels and the presence of a dipstick indicating large amount of myoglobin in the peripheral blood and urine without red cells on the microscopic examination.