Abstract
HYPOKALEMIA with or without metabolic alkalosis has been reported in patients receiving large doses of penicillin G potassium and carbenicillin disodium.<sup>1-4</sup>It has been suggested that the penicillins produce hypokalemia because of their action as a nonabsorbable anion.<sup>2,3</sup>However, Tattersall et al<sup>5</sup>reported that the antibiotic-associated hypokalemia is simply a redistribution of potassium within the body rather than a potassium loss. We describe a patient with staphylococcal septicemia treated with nafcillin sodium who experienced hypokalemia with excess urinary loss of potassium. <h3>Report of a Case</h3> A 23-year-old intravenous drug-addicted woman had a cesarean section for onset of premature labor and fetal distress. A nonviable infant was delivered. Two days after cesarean section, there was the onset of fever, tachycardia, and hypotension. She appeared acutely ill. Vital signs showed a blood pressure of 90/60 mm Hg; pulse rate was 140 beats per minute; temperature was 38.8 °C; respirations
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