Evaluation of Hyperkalemia Associated with Trimethoprim- Sulfamethoxazole in the Intensive Care Unit

Abstract

Aim: The objective of this study was to determine the incidence and risk factors of hyperkalemia associated with trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (TMP-SMX) in the intensive care unit (ICU). Study design: A single-center, retrospective observational study. Materials and Methods: The study population consisted of patients who received TMP-SMX in the ICU. Patients were categorized into two groups based on the level of serum potassium: the group with hyperkalemia and the group without hyperkalemia. Results: The incidence of hyperkalemia in the patients receiving TMP-SMX in ICU was 49% (25/51). Hyperkalemia occurred 6.2±3.8 days after the beginning of TMP-SMX treatment. Baseline serum potassium level determined as an independent risk factor for hyperkalemia (p