BACKGROUND
Rhabdomyolysis, an uncommon but recognized adverse effect of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) antidepressants, can precipitate acute renal injury (AKI), especially when combined with risk factors such as alcohol consumption. This report describes a 68-year-old man with acute renal failure due to rhabdomyolysis associated with alcohol intoxication while taking low-dose escitalopram, an SSRI antidepressant.
CASE REPORT
The patient, with a history of bipolar affective disorder managed with escitalopram, presented with symptoms of general malaise, diarrhea, myalgias, and transient loss of consciousness following substantial ethanol consumption. Laboratory tests indicated severe rhabdomyolysis with a creatine kinase level of 37 672 U/L and myoglobin level >5710 ng/ml, leading to an AKI diagnosis. The discontinuation of escitalopram, along with hydration and renal replacement therapy, facilitated renal recovery. However, the reintroduction of escitalopram resulted in the recurrence of rhabdomyolysis, suggesting a probable causal link, confirmed using the Naranjo Adverse Drug Reaction Probability Scale.
CONCLUSIONS
This report highlights the importance of identifying the medication history in patients presenting with acute renal failure and rhabdomyolysis and the association with SSRIs, which can be exacerbated by alcohol. This case underscores the importance of vigilant medication history assessment in patients presenting with AKI and rhabdomyolysis, particularly concerning the use of SSRIs like escitalopram, which can pose heightened risks in the context of alcohol use. It highlights the need for clinical caution in managing patients on long-term SSRI therapy, especially when reintroducing such medications after an episode of rhabdomyolysis.

Keywords: Rhabdomyolysis; Acute Kidney Injury; Escitalopram; Olanzapine; Case Reports