Ibuprofen-induced renal tubular acidosis—a rare cause of rhabdomyolysis: a case report

Ibuprofen is widely used in the community to manage pain, inflammation and fever. In cases of prolonged and supratherapeutic ingestion of ibuprofen, renal tubular acidosis (RTA) with profound hypokalemia may occur. Although hypokalemia is known to cause rhabdomyolysis, rhabdomyolysis occurring in the setting of ibuprofen-induced RTA is rare. We present an unusual case of a 34-year-old male who presented with rhabdomyolysis in the setting of profound hypokalemia as a result of ibuprofen-induced RTA. The patient was successfully treated with fluid resuscitation, electrolyte replacement and supportive therapy. This case demonstrates a serious complication of ibuprofen and the importance of monitoring in nonprescription medications.