Analysis of the Clinical Characteristics of Hyponatremia Induced by Trimethoprim/Sulfamethoxazole

Pharmacology. 2022;107(7-8):351-358. doi: 10.1159/000523824. Epub 2022 Apr 5.

Abstract

Background: Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (TMP/SMX) causes hyperkalemia, and hyponatremia caused by TMP/SMX is a challenge for clinicians. We described the clinical features of hyponatremia induced by TMP/SMX after collecting cases.

Summary: The median age of the 24 patients (10 males and 14 females) was 67 years (range: 28-90 years). Hyponatremia induced by TMP/SMX manifested as nausea (41.7%) and vomiting (29.2%) or asymptomatic hyponatremia (20.8%). The median duration of hyponatremia was 5 days (range: 3-10 days). The median serum sodium concentration was 118 mmol/L (range: 101-128.1 mmol/L). The serum sodium levels gradually returned to the normal range at 4 days (median; range: 2-14 days) after withdrawing TMP/SMX.

Key messages: TMP/SMX-induced hyponatremia is a rare and serious adverse reaction. Clinicians should be aware of electrolyte disturbances caused by TMP/SMX and should always consider electrolyte monitoring.

Keywords: Electrolyte disorders; Hyponatremia; Sodium; Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Electrolytes / adverse effects
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Hyperkalemia* / chemically induced
  • Hyponatremia* / chemically induced
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Sodium
  • Trimethoprim, Sulfamethoxazole Drug Combination / adverse effects

Substances

  • Electrolytes
  • Trimethoprim, Sulfamethoxazole Drug Combination
  • Sodium