Caffeine-induced hypokalemic paralysis in pregnancy.
BACKGROUND
Excessive ingestion of caffeine can induce hypokalemia, which affects the neuromuscular system and can lead to paralysis.


METHODS
A 24-year-old woman, gravida 3, para 2-0-0-2 at 33 weeks' gestation presented with muscular paralysis and hypokalemia secondary to drinking 6 to 7 L of cola per day with little other oral intake. After potassium replacement and stopping caffeine ingestion, the symptoms resolved quickly.


CONCLUSIONS
The physiologic changes of pregnancy might potentiate the effect of caffeine on serum potassium concentration.
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Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Texas Tech University Health Science Center, 1400 Wallace Boulevard, Amarillo, TX 79106, USA. sue@cortex.ama.ttuhsc.edu
Myles
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D000328:Adult; D002110:Caffeine / Q000009:adverse effects*; D002253:Carbonated Beverages / Q000009:adverse effects; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007008:Hypokalemia / Q000139:chemically induced* / Q000628:therapy*; D010243:Paralysis / Q000139:chemically induced*; D011247:Pregnancy; D011248:Pregnancy Complications / Q000139:chemically induced* / Q000628:therapy*; D011295:Prenatal Care
D002110:Caffeine