Mechanisms of drug-induced hyperkalemia

Abstract

Summary Drug-induced hyperkalemia is an important cause of morbidity and mortality. Drugs can cause hyperkalemia by a variety of mechanisms including reduction in renal potassium excretion due to hypoaldosteronism, reduction in passive potassium excretion, increase in extracellular potassium shifts and increase in potassium supply. Patients most at risk are those with underlying disorders affecting potassium handling, such as chronic renal failure, and those taking a combination of drugs known to cause hyperkalemia.