Antibiotic-Induced Hiccups: A Case Report and Brief Literature Review

Hosp Pharm. 2024 Apr;59(2):146-148. doi: 10.1177/00185787231207748. Epub 2023 Oct 30.

Abstract

Hiccups, also called hiccoughs, are sudden, involuntary and rapid expulsion of air from the lungs with synchronous closure of the glottis causing blockade of the air flow. Hiccups may be induced by a multitude of etiologies such as central nervous disorders, gastrointestinal disorders, cardiovascular disorders, psychogenic factors, and metabolic disorders. Hiccups induced by medications are rare. The diagnosis of drug-induced hiccup is difficult. The exact mechanism responsible for this adverse drug reaction is still unknown. Herein, we report the first case of cefotaxime-induced hiccups and briefly review the literature on antibiotic-induced hiccups.

Keywords: adverse drug reaction; antibiotics; hiccups.

Publication types

  • Case Reports