Levetiracetam Induced Hyperkalemia – A Rare Side Effect in Elderly with Pre-Existing Subclinical Renal Insufficiency Presenting with Bradyarrhythmia

Abstract

Levetiracetam is a commonly used drug in today’s world for long term management of partial as well as generalized seizures mainly due its major advantage that is has so few and non-threatening side effects[1].In the following case scenario, we show how a 70 years old male presented with severe hyperkalemia and after no other common culprits were seen, it was thought to be a side effect therapy with levetiracetam and after discontinuing it and managing hyperkalemia, the patient’s condition improved from a very critical state. We also show a rare form ECG presentation of severe hyperkalemia in the form of bradyarrhythmia with absent P waves. Our experience shows that unpredictable and rare side effects of new anti-epileptic drugs should be given attention and such cases often go undiagnosed.