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Rhabdomyolysis caused by tocolytic therapy with ritodrine hydrochloride
L Verriello1, D D'Amico, G Pauletto
1Department of Neurology and DPMSC, University and Santa Maria della Misericordia Hospital, Piazzale S.M. della Misericordia, Padiglione Specialità, IV piano, Udine 33100, Italy. verriello.lorenzo@aoud.sanita.fvg.it
Neuromuscular Disorders : NMD
|June 27, 2009
Summary
Ritodrine hydrochloride can cause rhabdomyolysis, a severe muscle condition, even in pregnant patients without prior neuromuscular issues. Monitoring creatine kinase (CK) levels and muscle symptoms is crucial for women receiving ritodrine for premature labor.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Pharmacology
- Obstetrics
Background:
- Ritodrine hydrochloride is commonly used to manage premature labor.
- Rhabdomyolysis is a serious condition involving muscle breakdown.
Observation:
- A pregnant patient without a history of neuromuscular disease developed severe generalized weakness and muscle pain after ritodrine administration.
- Laboratory tests revealed elevated creatine kinase (CK) levels and myoglobinuria.
- Electromyography showed a myogenic pattern with diffuse denervation activity, and muscle biopsy excluded inflammatory and metabolic myopathies.
Findings:
- The patient experienced rhabdomyolysis attributed to ritodrine hydrochloride treatment.
- Following delivery and intensive rehabilitation, the patient made a full recovery with normal neurological function and CK levels within three months.
Implications:
- Rhabdomyolysis should be considered as a potential adverse effect of ritodrine hydrochloride, even in patients without pre-existing neuromuscular conditions.
- Close monitoring of muscular symptoms and CK levels is recommended for pregnant women treated with ritodrine for premature labor to ensure early detection and management of potential rhabdomyolysis.
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