Sulodexide-induced Hyperkalemia: A Case Report / 대한신장학회지

ABSTRACT

Sulodexide is composed of two glycosaminoglycans (fast-moving heparin 80%, dermatan sulfate 20%) that are capable of preventing diabetic nephropathy by correcting abnormal glycosaminoglycan metabolism. Considering heparin-like propertyof sulodexide, side effect profiles of sulodexide are expected to be similar with those of heparin. Among those side effects, we remarked on heparin-induced hyperkalemia and hereby report a case of severe hyperkalemia during the use of sulodexide. A 52-year-old man with diabetic nephroapthy and hypertension was admitted to our hospital because of severe hyperkalemia up to 7.5 meq/L. His clinical condition was stable and medications including losartan and furosemide had not been changed for last 6 months except the addition of sulodexide, which was started 30 days prior to admission. Despite intensive use of Kayexalate and immediate discontinuation of losartan, hyperkalemia aggravated up to 8.0 meq/L. After recognition of possible sulodexide-induced hyperkalemia, sulodexide was discontinued, which resulted in rapid correction of hyperkalemia. In view of the above discussed clinical consideration, we suspect sulodexide as a major cause of hyperkalmia and report this case with a review of literature.