Rhabdomyolysis Associated With Olanzapine Treatment in a Child With Autism

Karakaya P., YİŞ U., Kurul S. H., Tuerkmen M. A.

PEDIATRIC EMERGENCY CARE, vol.26, no.1, pp.41-42, 2010 (SCI-Expanded, Scopus) identifier identifier identifier

  • Publication Type: Article / Article
  • Volume: 26 Issue: 1
  • Publication Date: 2010
  • Doi Number: 10.1097/pec.0b013e3181c39a22
  • Journal Name: PEDIATRIC EMERGENCY CARE
  • Journal Indexes: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus
  • Page Numbers: pp.41-42
  • Keywords: autism, rhabdomyolysis, olanzapine
  • Dokuz Eylül University Affiliated: Yes

Abstract

Children with autism often display difficult behaviors including tantrums, extreme irritability; and physical aggression. There is emerging evidence that olanzapine is useful in decreasing these disruptive behaviors. The most common adverse effects are weight gain and short-term sedation. On the other hand, olanzapine rarely causes rhabdomyolysis. We report a case with rhabdomyolysis in an autistic child just after 2 doses of olanzapine treatment. Initial creatine kinase value was 30,690 IU/L (range, 5-130 U/L), and rhabdomyolysis resolved with hydration and alkalinization over 7 days. Monitoring serum creatine kinase levels may be useful in pediatric cases after initiation of olanzapine treatment.