Rosuvastatin induced rhabdomyolysis – Rare case reported in Batticaloa

Abstract

We reported a case of rosuvastatin induced rhabdomyolysis in a patient, who presented with one week 
history of bilateral thigh, back and shoulder pain and easy fatigability associated with passing dark 
coloured urine for two days. His systemic examination reveals muscle tenderness. His investigations 
showed high blood urea (147 mg%), serum creatinine (2.4mol/L), creatine kinase (CK) (21,210 U/L) and 
with a significant increase in urine myoglobin. Even he has no risk factors; he was diagnosed as 
rosuvastatin induced rhabdomyolysis associated with acute renal failure. The drug was stopped on the 
first day of admission and the patient was initiated on intravenous fluid with cautious monitoring of 
serum electrolytes. On the following days, the level of creatine kinase and serum myoglobin returned 
towards normal and consequently he was discharged without statins but on dietary therapy. On follow
up evaluation, the patient was symptoms free, his serum creatinine was 0.7mol/L, whereas his LDL 
cholesterol was 119mg/dL. The rosuvastatin induced rhabdomyolysis is discussed and the danger of its 
use in low risk patients is emphasized.