Unusual cause of hypokalemia and paralysis in an elderly patient with Bronchial Asthma.

ABSTRACT

Asthma is a syndrome characterized by airflow obstruction that varies markedly, both spontaneously and with treatment. There are so many adverse effects of drugs which are used in the management of bronchial asthma in elderly. We report a case of sudden onset paralysis of both lower limbs after treatment of asthma with nebulized β2- agonists. The inappropriate and continuous use of such drugs may cause the hypokalaemic paralysis though lifesaving many times. Hypokalaemia is a common adverse effect of β2- agonists but hypokalaemic paralysis of both lower limbs is a rare entity.