Cola-induced hypokalemia-a case report and review of the literature.

OBJECTIVE

We aim to describe an unusual and underappreciated cause for hypokalemia.

METHODS

We describe a patient diagnosed with cola-induced hypokalemia and review the literature.

RESULTS

Ingestion of massive amounts of cola can lead to severe hypokalemia through several pathophysiologic mechanisms. These perturbations include osmotic diarrhea, osmotic diuresis, and hyperinsulinemia secondary to hyperglycemia with resultant intracellular to cellular shifts in potassium. These effects are magnified by concomitant high levels of caffeine.

CONCLUSIONS

Ingestion of large quantities of cola should be added to differential diagnosis for severe hypokalemia.