Hyperaldosteronism Screening and Findings From a Large Diverse Population With Resistant Hypertension Within an Integrated Health System.

INTRODUCTION: Hyperaldosteronism (HA) is a common cause of secondary hypertension and may contribute to resistant hypertension (RH). The authors sought to determine and characterize HA screening, positivity rates, and mineralocorticoid receptor antagonist (MRA) use among patients with RH. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was performed within Kaiser Permanente Southern California (7/1/2012-6/30/2017). Using contemporary criteria, RH was defined as blood pressure uncontrolled (≥ 130/80) on ≥ 3 medications or requiring ≥ 4 antihypertensive medications. The primary outcome was screening rate for HA defined as any aldosterone and plasma renin activity measurement. Secondary outcomes were HA screen positive rates and MRA use among all patients with RH. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was used to estimate odds ratio (with 95% confidence intervals) for factors associated with HA screening and for patients that screened positive. RESULTS: Among 102,480 patients identified as RH, 1977 (1.9%) were screened for HA and 727 (36.8%) screened positive for HA. MRA use was 6.5% among all patients with RH (22.5% among screened, 31.2% among screened positive). Black race, potassium < 4, bicarbonate > 29, chronic kidney disease, obstructive sleep apnea, and systolic blood pressure were associated with HA screening, but only Black race (1.55 [1.20-2.01]), potassium (1.82 [1.48-2.24]), bicarbonate levels (1.39 [1.10-1.75]), and diastolic blood pressure (1.15 [1.03-1.29]) were associated with positive screenings. CONCLUSION: The authors' findings demonstrate low screening rates for HA among patients with difficult-to-control hypertension yet a high positivity rate among those screened. Factors associated with screening did not always correlate with screening positive. Screening and targeted use of MRA may lead to improved blood pressure control and outcomes among patients with RH.

Effect of preinitiated glucose-insulin-potassium strategy for patients with undergoing planned percutaneous coronary intervention: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

OBJECTIVES: Whether the glucose-insulin-potassium (GIK) should be used as an adjuvant therapy for ischaemic myocardial disease remains controversial nowadays reperfusion era. This meta-analysis aimed to assess the effects of preinitiated GIK for patients undergoing planned percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). DESIGN: Systematic review and meta-analysis. DATA SOURCES: PubMed, Web of science, MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane Library and ClinicalTrials.gov were searched through 27 November 2022. ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA: Only randomised controlled trials involving participants preinitiated with GIK or placebo before planned PCI were included. DATA EXTRACTION AND SYNTHESIS: Two independent reviewers used standardised methods to search, screen and code included trials. Risk of bias was assessed with the Cochrane tool. Pooled analysis was conducted using random or effects models according to the heterogeneity. Subgroup analyses were carried out for dosage of GIK and if with ongoing myocardial ischaemia. RESULTS: 13 randomised controlled trials (RCTs) including 3754 participants were evaluated. We found patients preconditioned with GIK before PCI showed a significant increase in Thrombolysis in Myocardial Infarction 3 flow events after angioplasty (OR 1.59, 95% CI 1.03 to 2.46, p=0.04), also revealed improved in-hospital left ventricular ejection fraction (weighed mean difference, WMD 1.62, 95% CI 0.21 to 3.03, p=0.02) and myocardial salvage index (WMD 0.09, 95% CI 0.01 to 0.16, p=0.03). Nevertheless, no benefit was observed in all-cause mortality neither on 30-day (OR 0.81, 95% CI 0.59 to 1.11, p=0.18) nor 6 months (OR 1.02, 95% CI 0.42 to 2.46, p=0.97). Furthermore, GIK intervention was associated with higher occurrences of complications such as phlebitis (OR 10.13, 95% CI 1.74 to 59.00, p=0.01) and hypoglycaemia (OR 10.43, 95% CI 1.32 to 82.29, p=0.03), but not hyperkalaemia (OR 9.36, 95% CI 0.50 to 175.27, p=0.13), liquid overload (OR 1.02, 95% CI 0.25 to 4.13, p=0.98) or in-hospital heart failure (OR 0.42, 95% CI 0.06 to 2.96, p=0.39). CONCLUSIONS: Our study shows preconditioning GIK exhibits myocardial reperfusion and cardiac function benefits for patients planning to receive PCI intervention, while also some complications such as phlebitis and hypoglycaemia accompany. PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER: CRD42022326334.

Clinical Efficacy of Diet Intervention Combined with Bismuth Potassium Citrate in Helicobacter pylori-Related Chronic Atrophic Gastritis.

Objective: To investigate the clinical impact of dietary intervention in combination with bismuth potassium citrate in the management of chronic atrophic gastritis (CAG) caused by Helicobacter pylori. Methods: From April 2019 to October 2022, 160 patients with newly identified Helicobacter pylori-related CAG were treated at our facility. They were split into two groups at random: the bismuth potassium citrate medication group (n = 80) and the diet intervention + bismuth potassium citrate experimental groups (n = 80). The bismuth potassium citrate treatment group was given bismuth potassium citrate capsule treatment only, and the diet intervention + bismuth potassium citrate treatment group was given diet intervention based on bismuth potassium citrate capsule. The diet intervention score, symptom score, and pathological score of the two groups were observed at baseline and after treatment, and the relationship between dietary intervention and symptoms and pathology of Helicobacter pylori-related CAG was analyzed. Results: During the baseline period, there was no discernible difference in the diet intervention score, symptom score, or pathology score between the two groups (P > .05); after the diet intervention combination treatment, the diet intervention score, diet intervention + bismuth potassium citrate experimental groups symptom score, and pathology score were considerably lower than those in the bismuth potassium citrate treated group (P < .05). Conclusions: Dietary intervention combined with bismuth potassium citrate exhibited more effective treatment than bismuth potassium citrate-only treatment in Helicobacter pylori-related CAG, which hinted us proper diet has a positive impact on improving the therapeutic efficacy of bismuth potassium citrate.

Effectiveness and safety of the co-administration of Yokukan-San (Japanese herbal medicine) with antipsychotics in hospitalized older patients with pneumonia.

AIM: Behavioral and psychological symptoms and delirium frequently occur in hospitalized older patients with pneumonia and are associated with longer hospital stays. Yokukan-San (YKS, traditional Japanese [Kampo] medicine) and antipsychotics are often used to treat delirium and behavioral and psychological symptoms in Japan. Hence, this study aimed to assess the effectiveness and safety of the co-administration of YKS with atypical antipsychotics in older patients with pneumonia. METHODS: We used the Japanese Diagnosis Procedure Combination inpatient database to retrospectively identify older patients (≥65 years) hospitalized for pneumonia who received antipsychotics within 3 days of hospitalization. The patients were divided into two groups: those who received atypical antipsychotics alone (control group) and those who received both atypical antipsychotics and YKS (YKS group). We compared length of hospital stay, in-hospital mortality, bone fractures, and administration of potassium products between the two groups using propensity score overlap weighting. RESULT: We identified 4789 patients in the YKS group and 61 641 in the control group. After propensity score overlap weighting, length of hospital stay was statistically significantly shorter in the YKS group (percentage difference -3.0%; 95% confidence interval -5.8% to -0.3%). The proportion of patients who received potassium products was higher in the YKS group (odds ratio 1.34; 95% confidence interval 1.15-1.55). In-hospital death and bone fractures were not significantly different. CONCLUSION: Co-administration of YKS with atypical antipsychotics could be a reasonable treatment option for hospitalized older patients with pneumonia and aggressive psychiatric symptoms. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2023; 23: 849-854.

Thyrotoxic periodic paralysis associated with lactic metabolic acidosis: Case report of an African man and review of literature.

BACKGROUND: Thyrotoxic periodic paralysis (TPP) is a rare and most often acquired subtype of hypokalemic periodic paralysis. The association of varying degrees of muscle weakness, hyperthyroidism and hypokalemia characterizes it. The treatment requires potassium supplementation, control of hyperthyroidism and prevention measures. It is a frequent disease in Asian men, but much rare in Caucasian or African populations. This is the first report of TPP associated with lactic metabolic acidosis in an African man. CASE PRESENTATION: A 23 year-old African man, native from Morocco, with recurrent episodes of tetraparesis for eleven months, and abdominal pain, was referred for evaluation. Biochemical investigations showed severe hypokalemia associated with hyperthyroidism and lactic metabolic acidosis. His EKG showed signs of hypokalemia such as sinus tachycardia and U waves. After potassium supplementation, neurological recuperation was quick and complete. Thyroid ultrasound identified a hypoechogenic and hypervascularized goiter, associated with high levels of thyroid antibodies, in favor of Grave's disease. With antithyroid drugs and life-style changes, the patient did not have any other attack. REVIEW OF LITERATURE: In addition to the case report, this article presents an extended review of literature, from the first large study reporting the diagnosis and incidence of TPP in 1957 to nowadays. Are reported here the latest information concerning epidemiology, clinical manifestations, complementary examinations, management and genetic finding. The lactic acidosis observed initially is exceptional, never described in TPP. TPP is a diagnostic and therapeutic emergency, requiring careful potassium supplementation, in order to avoid the risk of the onset of rebound hyperkalemia, to be maintained until the etiological treatment is effective. Paraclinical assessment with emergency EKG and electromyogram are essential to assess the impact. DISCUSSION: It is essential in the face of any hypokalaemic periodic paralysis, including in non-Asian subjects, to search hyperthyroidism. CONCLUSIONS: This report demonstrates the importance of thyroid testing in case of acute muscle weakness, even in non-Asian patients in order to diagnose TPP. This is a rare but possible etiology, to be distinguished from the familial form of hypokalemic periodic paralysis. It also questions on the impact of TPP on energetic metabolism, in particular on lactic metabolism.

Sophoridine manifests as a leading compound for anti-arrhythmia with multiple ion-channel blocking effects.

BACKGROUND: Sophoridine (SR) has shown the potential to be an antiarrhythmic agent. However, SR's electrophysiological properties and druggability research are relatively inadequate, which limits the development of SR as an antiarrhythmic candidate. PURPOSE: To facilitate the development process of SR as an antiarrhythmic candidate, we performed integrated studies on the electrophysiological properties of SR in vitro and ex vivo to gain more comprehensive insights into the multi-ion channel blocking effects of SR, which provided the foundation for the further drugability studies in antiarrhythmic and safety studies. Firstly, SR's electrophysiological properties and antiarrhythmic potentials were recorded and assessed at the cell and tissue levels by comprehensively integrating the patch clamp with the Electrical and Optical Mapping systems. Subsequently, the antiarrhythmic effects of SR were validated by aconitine and ouabain-induced arrhythmia in vivo. Finally, the safety of SR as an antiarrhythmic candidate compound was evaluated based on the guidelines of the Comprehensive in Vitro Proarrhythmia Assay (CiPA). STUDY DESIGN: The antiarrhythmic effect of SR was evaluated at the in vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo levels. METHODS: Isolated primary cardiomyocytes and stable cell lines were prepared to explore the electrophysiologic properties of being a multiple ion-channel blocker in vitro by whole-cell patch clamp. Using electrical and optical mapping, the negative chronotropic effect of SR was determined in langendorff-perfused rat or guinea-pig hearts.The antiarrhythmic activity of SR was assessed by the ex vivo tachyarrhythmia models induced by left coronary artery ligation (LCAL) and isoproterenol (ISO). Canonical models of aconitine and ouabain-induced arrhythmia were used to verify the antiarrhythmic effects in vivo. Finally, the pro-arrhythmic risk of SR was detected in Human-Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell-Derived Cardiomyocytes (hSCCMs) using a Microelectrode array (MEA). RESULTS: Single-cell patch assay validated the multiple ion-channel blockers of SR in transient outward current potassium currents (Ito), l-type calcium currents (ICa-l), and rapid activation delayed rectifier potassium currents (IKr). SR ex vivo depressed heart rates (HR) and ventricular conduction velocity (CV) and prolonged Q-T intervals in a concentration-dependent manner. Consistent with the changes in HRs, SR extended the active time of hearts and increased the action potential duration measured at 90% repolarization (APD90). SR could also significantly lengthen the onset time and curtail the duration of spontaneous ventricular tachycardia (VT) in the ex vivo arrhythmic model induced by LCAL. Meanwhile, SR could also significantly upregulate the programmed electrical stimulation (PES) frequency after the ISO challenge in forming electrical alternans and re-entrant excitation. Furthermore, SR exerted antiarrhythmic effects in the tachyarrhythmia models induced by aconitine and ouabain in vivo. Notably, the pro-arrhythmic risk of SR was shallow for a moderate inhibition of the human ether-à-go-go-related gene (hERG) channel. Moreover, SR prolonged field potential duration (FPDc) of hSCCMs in a concentration-dependent manner without early after depolarization (EAD) and arrhythmia occurrence. CONCLUSION: Our results indicated that SR manifested as a multiple ion-channel blocker in the electrophysiological properties and exerts antiarrhythmic effects ex vivo and in vivo. Meanwhile, due to the low pro-arrhythmic risk in the hERG inhibition assay and the induction of EAD, SR has great potential as a leading candidate in the treatment of ventricular tachyarrhythmia.

Clinical Efficacy of Mouthwashes with Potassium Salts in the Treatment of Dentinal Hypersensitivity: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.

AIM: This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated whether the home use of mouthwashes containing potassium salts is effective in reducing and controlling dentin hypersensitivity (DH). METHODS AND MATERIALS: This study is reported according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) checklist and was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42021228410). Randomized clinical trials evaluating the use of mouthwashes containing potassium salt for daily household mouthwash for at least four weeks to reduce DH compared with a control mouthwash were selected, with no limitation on year of publication. Electronic research was carried out in PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library by two independent researchers. One hundred thirty-three articles were obtained, and nine were selected according to the inclusion criteria. RESULTS: The selected studies evaluated DH through tests of sensitivity to tactile and evaporative stimuli and showed that, for the tactile stimulus, there were no baseline differences between groups (p=0.12; mean difference: -0.33; confidence intervals [CI]: -0.73 to 0.08). However, there were significant differences after two weeks of use (p=0.00001; mean difference: 4.67; CI: 4.53 to 4.81), after four weeks (p=0.00001; mean difference: 13.29; CI: 13.03 to 13.55), and after eight weeks (p=0.00001; mean difference: 8.88; CI: 5.73 to 12.02) favoring the experimental group. The results of the evaporative test showed no differences in the baseline assessment between the two groups (p=0.50; mean difference: -0.02; CI: -0.09 to 0.04), but after four weeks (p=0.00001; mean difference: -0.32; CI: -0.44 to -0.20), and eight weeks of use (p=0.00001; mean difference: -0.42; CI: -0.57 to -0.27) there were differences favoring the experimental group. The incidence of side effects showed no differences between the two groups (p=0.89; mean difference: 1.03; CI: 0.67 to 1.58). CONCLUSION: The daily use of mouthwashes containing potassium salt is effective in the treatment of dentinal hypersensitivity, as a complementary step to brushing at least twice a day for two weeks, four weeks, and up to eight weeks, without presenting side effects.

Hypokalaemia associated with hydrochlorothiazide used in the treatment of hypertension in NHANES 1999-2018.

Hydrochlorothiazide is the most common thiazide diuretic used for hypertension in the US. Yet, hypokalaemia is a well-recognised adverse effect. To evaluate the prevalence and factors associated with hypokalaemia (serum potassium < 3.5 mmol/L) among hydrochlorothiazide users, we included US adults aged ≥20 years in the 1999-2018 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. Participants were categorised according to the use of hydrochlorothiazide and other antihypertensive agents. Factors associated with hypokalaemia, including demographics and prescription patterns (monotherapy vs single-pill fixed-dose combination vs polytherapy) were studied using multivariable logistic regression. Hypokalaemia was present in 12.6% of the hydrochlorothiazide users, equivalent to ~2.0 million US adults. Women (adjusted OR, 2.22; 95% CI, 1.74-2.83), non-Hispanic blacks (adjusted OR, 1.65; 95% CI, 1.31-2.08), underweight (adjusted OR, 4.33; 95% CI, 1.34-13.95), and participants taking hydrochlorothiazide for five years or more (adjusted OR, 1.47; 95% CI, 1.06-2.04) had a higher risk of hypokalaemia. Compared to monotherapy, fixed-dose combination therapy (adjusted OR, 0.32; 95% CI, 0.21-0.48) was associated with the lowest risk. Among those taking potassium supplements, hypokalaemia was found in 27.2% of participants on monotherapy and 17.9% on polytherapy. The prevalence of hypokalaemia among hydrochlorothiazide users was considerable, even among participants who also took potassium supplements. Women, ethnic minorities, underweight, monotherapy, and participants with long-term therapy are more likely to have hypokalaemia. Regular monitoring of potassium and combination with potassium-sparing drugs are needed.

Treatment of Hypertension: A Review.

Importance: Hypertension, defined as persistent systolic blood pressure (SBP) at least 130 mm Hg or diastolic BP (DBP) at least 80 mm Hg, affects approximately 116 million adults in the US and more than 1 billion adults worldwide. Hypertension is associated with increased risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) events (coronary heart disease, heart failure, and stroke) and death. Observations: First-line therapy for hypertension is lifestyle modification, including weight loss, healthy dietary pattern that includes low sodium and high potassium intake, physical activity, and moderation or elimination of alcohol consumption. The BP-lowering effects of individual lifestyle components are partially additive and enhance the efficacy of pharmacologic therapy. The decision to initiate antihypertensive medication should be based on the level of BP and the presence of high atherosclerotic CVD risk. First-line drug therapy for hypertension consists of a thiazide or thiazidelike diuretic such as hydrochlorothiazide or chlorthalidone, an angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor or angiotensin receptor blocker such as enalapril or candesartan, and a calcium channel blocker such as amlodipine and should be titrated according to office and home SBP/DBP levels to achieve in most people an SBP/DBP target (<130/80 mm Hg for adults <65 years and SBP <130 mm Hg in adults ≥65 years). Randomized clinical trials have established the efficacy of BP lowering to reduce the risk of CVD morbidity and mortality. An SBP reduction of 10 mm Hg decreases risk of CVD events by approximately 20% to 30%. Despite the benefits of BP control, only 44% of US adults with hypertension have their SBP/DBP controlled to less than 140/90 mm Hg. Conclusions and Relevance: Hypertension affects approximately 116 million adults in the US and more than 1 billion adults worldwide and is a leading cause of CVD morbidity and mortality. First-line therapy for hypertension is lifestyle modification, consisting of weight loss, dietary sodium reduction and potassium supplementation, healthy dietary pattern, physical activity, and limited alcohol consumption. When drug therapy is required, first-line therapies are thiazide or thiazidelike diuretics, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor or angiotensin receptor blockers, and calcium channel blockers.

[Can salt substitution or reduction replace pharmaceuticals for arterial hypertension?] / Kann eine Salzsubstitution oder -reduktion bei arterieller Hypertonie Arzneimittel ersetzen?

Nonpharmacological treatment is still an important supplement to the pharmacological treatment of hypertension. Thereby, either an elevated blood pressure can be lowered further or, alternatively, the use of antihypertensive drugs can be reduced. In the context of nonpharmacological treatment of hypertension, sodium restriction plays an important role. Sodium intake can either be reduced by lowering excessive dietary salt consumption or by the use of table salts with reduced sodium content. Lower dietary sodium consumption lowers blood pressure. This was controversial for a long time; however, now more and more observational and interventional studies have confirmed this fact. Nevertheless, some studies have shown an association of low salt consumption with increased mortality. This observation is explained by the so-called reverse epidemiology. This means that diseases with increased mortality, such as consuming diseases or severe heart diseases are associated with lowered food intake and as a consequence, with lower sodium intake. In addition to sodium restriction, the use of so-called salt substitutes with lower sodium content is also effective in lowering blood pressure. In most of the salt substitutes examined so far sodium chloride is partly replaced by potassium chloride. Numerous investigations show that these salt substitutes lower blood pressure. From a statistical point of view side effects such as hyperkalemia are very rare; however, hyperkalemia is potentially life-threatening. Therefore, the broader use of these salt substitutes is principally helpful but these salts should only be used after medical consultation. Especially renal insufficiency and the use of certain drugs, such as potassium-sparing diuretics and blockers of the renin-angiotensin system increase the risk of hyperkalemia.

A 77-Year-Old Man with Heparin-Induced Aldosterone Suppression Causing Hyperkalemia.

BACKGROUND Anticoagulation with heparin infrequently causes elevated serum potassium via a reduction in the number and affinity of adrenal angiotensin II receptors, causing reversible aldosterone suppression, thereby leading to enhanced sodium excretion and hyperkalemia. CASE REPORT A 77 year-old man presented with productive cough and shortness of breath and was subsequently found to have non-ST-elevation myocardial infarction and concomitant symptomatic COVID-19 infection, for which he was started on a high-dose unfractionated heparin infusion. A gradual increase in serum potassium followed, with a subsequent return to a normal potassium level after stopping treatment with heparin. An evaluation for hemolysis was unrevealing, and the patient was not on any other medications known to cause hyperkalemia. On day 6, heparin was restarted owing to a high suspicion of pulmonary embolism. There was a subsequent increase in serum potassium level, which was followed by a return to baseline after discontinuation of heparin, thereby confirming the suspected diagnosis. CONCLUSIONS Acute increases in serum potassium levels in hospitalized patients can result in weakness, paralysis, conduction abnormalities, and cardiac arrhythmias that, if left untreated, can result in serious morbidity and potentially death in a short period of time. As this clinical entity is infrequently encountered in clinical practice, it can easily be overlooked by clinicians. The prompt exclusion of alternative causes of acutely elevated serum potassium levels and the identification of heparin administration as an easily reversible trigger is imperative and can potentially be life-saving.

Photobiomodulation therapy and 3% potassium nitrate gel as treatment of cervical dentin hypersensitivity: a randomized clinical trial.

OBJECTIVES: This randomized controlled trial aimed to evaluate different protocols for dentin hypersensitivity treatment with low-power lasers and desensitizing agents, and the association between low-power lasers and desensitizing agents. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Fifty-four patients (303 teeth) were randomly allocated to three groups: G1, 3% nitrate potassium gel, UltraEZ (n = 17); G2, photobiomodulation therapy (PBM) with a low-level infrared laser (n = 17), 100 mW, spot size of 0.028 cm2, and dose of 1 J per point; and G3, nitrate potassium + PBM (n = 20). Treatments were applied to the buccal cervical region at intervals of 72 h, and all protocols were performed in three sessions. The patients' response to evaporative stimuli was rated using the visual analog scale (VAS). Re-evaluations were performed immediately after each application and 1 week, 1 month, and 3 months after treatment. A two-way repeated measures test and Tukey's post hoc test were used for multiple comparisons (α = 5%). RESULTS: There was a reduction in pain levels at the end of treatment in all groups. There were no significant differences in VAS score changes between the groups immediately after treatment and after the third month, compared to the baseline (p > 0.05). CONCLUSION: Under the limitations of this in vivo study, the proposed three-session protocol was effective in reducing dentin hypersensitivity after 3 months, regardless of the desensitization mechanism used. Conservative and long-term protocols are interesting for the control of pain caused by dentin hypersensitivity. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: The increase in cervical dentin hypersensitivity prevalence warrants easy-to-apply and long-lasting desensitizing protocols for pain control.

[Hypercalcemia after hyperkalemia]. / Hypercalciëmie na een hyperkaliëmie.

BACKGROUND: Hyperkalemia is a common yet dangerous phenomenon in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). Patients suffering from CKD are therefore often treated with potassium-binding supplements such as calcium polystyrene sulfonate (CPS). Hypercalcemia is a known side effect of CPS. However, the increase in serum calcium is usually small. CASE DESCRIPTION: A 68 year old male patient suffering from CKD was treated with a daily administration of 80mg CPS. He presented with complaints of a dry mouth, thirst and malaise. Blood tests showed an elevated serum calcium of 3,25 mmol/L (2,15- 2,55 mmol/L). Additional diagnostics revealed no abnormalities. The hypercalcemia was attributed to the use of CPS only after the exclusion of a wide differential diagnosis. CONCLUSION: Although CPS induced hypercalcemia is usually mild, a more severe course is possible. Knowledge about the composition of medication is paramount to prevent such side effects.

Plasma renin, aldosterone, and urinary prostaglandin E2 levels in children with hypocalcemia due to vitamin D deficiency rickets.

We investigated the effect of hypocalcemia on plasma renin, aldosterone, and urine PGE2 levels in children with vitamin D deficiency rickets (VDDR). In the study group, 25 patients with VDDR-induced hypocalcemia were treated with a single dose of 150,000-300,000 IU cholecalciferol and 50 mg/kg/day elemental Ca for 10 days. On any day between 21th and 30th days after the treatment, the patients' clinical, biochemical and radiologic findings were re-evaluated. The healthy children with the same sex and similar age as the study group comprised the control group. Plasma sodium (Na), potassium (K), calcium (Ca), phosphorus (P), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), parathyroid hormone (PTH), 25- hydroxy vitamin D (25OHD), renin, aldosterone; and urinary Ca, creatinine (Cr) and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) levels were measured in both the study (pre-treatment and post-treatment) and the control group. Plasma Ca, P, 25OHD and renin levels and urinary PGE2/Cr ratio in the post-treatment group were significantly higher than those in the pre-treatment group while K, ALP, and PTH concentrations were significantly lower. Plasma ALP and PTH levels in pre-treatment group were significantly higher than in the control group while Ca, P, 25OHD, aldosterone and renin concentrations and urinary PGE2/Cr ratio were significantly lower. Post-treatment plasma Ca level was significantly decreased in normal limits compared to the control group while other biochemical parameters were not different from the control group. Plasma Ca concentration was positively correlated with renin level and urinary PGE2/Cr ratio. The findings suggest that hypocalcemia may inhibit the production of renin, aldosterone and PGE2 and a blunt aldosterone secretion may develop even after recovery from hypocalcemia.

An Overview of Clinically Imperative and Pharmacodynamically Significant Drug Interactions of Renin-Angiotensin-Aldosterone System (RAAS) Blockers.

INTRODUCTION: Hypertension is a leading cause of cardiovascular disease and chronic kidney disease, resulting in premature death and disability. The Renin-Angiotensin-Aldosterone System (RAAS) blockers, including Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme (ACE) inhibitors or Angiotensin Receptor Blockers (ARBs), are used as first-line antihypertensive therapy to treat hypertensive patients with comorbidities, including diabetes, ischemic heart disease, heart failure, and chronic kidney disease. The use of RAS blockers is associated with the risks, such as hyperkalemia, angioedema, etc. The drugs potentiating them interact pharmacodynamically, resulting in adverse consequences. This review article focuses on the clinically important drug interactions of RAAS blockers. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The electronic databases, such as Medline/PubMed Central/PubMed, Google Scholar, ScienceDirect, Cochrane Library, Directory of Open Access Journals (DOAJ), Embase, and reference lists were searched to identify relevant articles. RESULTS: The risk of hyperkalemia may be enhanced potentially in patients receiving a RAS blocker and potassium-sparing diuretics, potassium supplements, trimethoprim, adrenergic betablockers, antifungal agents, calcineurin inhibitors, pentamidine, heparins or an NSAID, concomitantly. The patients taking ACE inhibitors and mTOR inhibitors, DPP4 inhibitors, alteplase, or sacubitril/valsartan concurrently may be at increased risk of developing angioedema. CONCLUSION: Clinicians, pharmacists, and other healthcare practitioners should be accountable for medication safety. To avoid adverse implications, prescribers and pharmacists must be aware of the drugs that interact with RAAS blockers.

Hypomagnesemia and Hypokalemia: Considerations for Cancer Care.

Electrolyte imbalances can frequently occur among patients with cancer. Hypomagnesemia and hypokalemia are side effects of certain chemotherapies, including cisplatin, cetuximab, eribulin, and ifosfamide. When patients concurrently receive chemotherapy and take medications that cause hypomagnesemia or hypokalemia, electrolyte imbalances are amplified. Provider and patient education are vital to identifying and treating these conditions in a timely manner. If medication usage depletes electrolytes, repletion through diet and supplements is essential. In symptomatic cases of electrolyte deficiency, oral and IV formulations of potassium and magnesium are options for treatment. This article discusses the importance of identifying and understanding the etiologies, symptoms, and treatment modalities of hypomagnesemia and hypokalemia.

Comparison of Adult Diabetic Ketoacidosis Treatment Protocols From Canadian Emergency Departments.

BACKGROUND: Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is a common acute life-threatening complication of poorly controlled diabetes mellitus contributing to considerable mortality and morbidity. Use of standardized treatment protocols improves patient outcomes in the emergency department (ED) for many conditions, but variability in adult DKA treatment protocols has not been assessed across EDs. In this study, we compared DKA treatment protocols from adult EDs across Canada to highlight inconsistencies in recommended DKA management. METHODS: ED staff in Canada were solicited for their treatment protocols used to guide acute ED DKA management. Information regarding initial fluid resuscitation and maintenance fluid, potassium replacement, insulin therapy and bicarbonate administration was abstracted from each protocol, collated in a table and compared. RESULTS: Thirty-six unique protocols were obtained representing 85 institutions (40 urban and 45 rural, with a 65.1% response rate) across Canada, with no protocol use for 4 urban centres. Similarities in protocols included the intravenous insulin infusion rate and instructions for switching to subcutaneous insulin. Variability was noted in the rate, amount and type of fluid bolus given (0.5 to 2 L of normal saline or Ringer's lactate over 15 minutes to 2 hours), the criteria determining the amount, potassium supplementation at normo/hypokalemic ranges, when to add dextrose to maintenance fluid, insulin bolus inclusion and bicarbonate administration. CONCLUSIONS: This is the first comparison of adult DKA treatment protocols in Canada. Although several common approaches were identified, variability was found in initial fluid boluses, initial insulin bolus and role of bicarbonate, necessitating further study to ensure local DKA protocols reflect current evidence-based best practices for optimal patient clinical outcomes.

Supraventricular tachycardia associated with severe diabetic ketoacidosis in a child with new-onset type 1 diabetes mellitus.

Diabetic ketoacidosis is one of the most serious and common complications of diabetes, with between 15 and 70% of new-onset type 1 diabetes mellitus worldwide presented with diabetic ketoacidosis. Supraventricular tachycardia, however, is an infrequent complication of diabetic ketoacidosis. We present the case of a child with a new-onset type 1 diabetes mellitus with supraventricular tachycardia as a complication of paediatric diabetic ketoacidosis. The patient received intravenous fluid resuscitation, insulin, and potassium supplementation and subsequently developed stable supraventricular tachycardia initially, confirmed on a 12-lead electrocardiogram despite a structurally normal heart and normal electrolytes. Vagal manoeuvers failed to achieve sinus rhythm. The patient went into respiratory distress and was intubated, for mechanical ventilation. She received one dose of adenosine with successful conversion to sinus rhythm and a heart rate decreased from 200 to 140 beats per minutes. We conclude that supraventricular tachycardia can occur as a complication of diabetic ketoacidosis, including in new-onset type 1 diabetes mellitus. Furthermore, a combination of acidosis, potassium derangement, falling magnesium, and phosphate levels may have precipitated the event. Here, we report a case of supraventricular tachycardia as a complication of paediatric diabetic ketoacidosis.

Massive Nonfatal Hydroxychloroquine Ingestion in a Pediatric Patient.

BACKGROUND: Hydroxychloroquine overdose is rare but potentially lethal. Hydroxychloroquine overdose symptoms are characterized by central nervous system toxicity, cardiac toxicity, and hypokalemia. Recommended treatment consists of epinephrine, high-dose diazepam, and careful potassium repletion. Few pediatric hydroxychloroquine overdoses have been reported. CASE REPORT: We describe a 14-year-old girl who ingested 10 g (172 mg/kg) of hydroxychloroquine. She developed tachycardia, hypotension, and hypokalemia. She was intubated and treated with diazepam and epinephrine infusions and potassium supplementation. Her serum hydroxychloroquine concentration obtained 10 h after ingestion was 13,000 ng/mL (reference range 500-2000 ng/mL). The patient made a full medical recovery. WHY SHOULD AN EMERGENCY PHYSICIAN BE AWARE OF THIS?: Pediatric hydroxychloroquine overdoses are reported rarely, and the toxic and lethal doses of hydroxychloroquine ingestion have not been established. This case of a teenaged patient who ingested 10 g of hydroxychloroquine and survived provides additional information that may be used to help establish toxic and lethal doses of ingestion.

Difficulties in the management of hypokalemia in a pregnant patient with Gitelman syndrome.

Gitelman syndrome (GS) is a rare renal disorder, and little is known about its impact on pregnancy. We report the successful outcome of pregnancy in a patient with GS that was managed with aggressive oral and intravenous potassium supplementation.