Abstract
Abstract Background: Co-trimoxazole is a broad-spectrum antibiotic
associated with hyperkalemia, particularly in those with additional risk
factors. Objectives: To determine the incidence of hyperkalemia and its
risk factors in patients receiving co-trimoxazole. Methods: A
retrospective observational study involving all patients who received
co-trimoxazole between 1 January 2012 and 1 January 2013. Subjects were
identified through a list generated from a computerized pharmacy system.
The patients’ demographic and clinical characteristics were retrieved
from electronic medical records. Data were analyzed using univariate and
multivariate logistic regression. Results: One hundred sixty-one
patients fulfilled the eligibility criteria. Of these, 46 (28.6%)
experienced hyperkalemia. Around 35 (76.1%) of the patients who
experienced hyperkalemia received co-administered medications that might
induce hyperkalemia. The co-administration of co-trimoxazole with other
medications that may induce hyperkalemia was found to be associated with
higher incidence of hyperkalemia when compared to co-trimoxazole
administration alone [adjusted OR 3.2, 95% CI (1.4-7.3), p=0.005].
Additionally, age > 60 years was associated with an
increased risk of hyperkalemia when compared to younger age group 18-39
years [adjusted OR 6.5, 95% CI (2.1-19.7); p=0.001]. Conclusion:
Caution should be exercised in older patients and those receiving
co-trimoxazole in combination with other medications, such as
immunosuppressants and β-blockers that might contribute to hyperkalemia
development. Keywords: Co-trimoxazole, co-administration, hyperkalemia,
risk factors, adverse drug reaction