Acute myocardial infarction after over-the-counter use of pseudoephedrine

Ann Emerg Med. 2005 Feb;45(2):213-6. doi: 10.1016/j.annemergmed.2004.07.003.

Abstract

Pseudoephedrine is a commonly used over-the-counter decongestant with sympathomimetic activity. We present the case of a previously healthy young man who had an acute myocardial infarction 45 minutes after ingesting the recommended dose of an over-the-counter cold remedy containing pseudoephedrine. Elevations of cardiac-specific creatinine kinase and cardiac troponin I confirmed the diagnosis. Cardiac catheterization 8 hours later revealed normal coronary arteries, suggesting a mechanism of vasospasm. Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging confirmed findings of regional myocardial infarction. This case highlights a potential danger of pseudoephedrine even when used by otherwise healthy individuals.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Acetaminophen / administration & dosage
  • Adult
  • Coronary Vasospasm / chemically induced
  • Drug Combinations
  • Ephedrine / administration & dosage
  • Ephedrine / adverse effects*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Myocardial Infarction / chemically induced*
  • Myocardial Infarction / diagnosis
  • Nasal Decongestants / administration & dosage
  • Nasal Decongestants / adverse effects*
  • Nonprescription Drugs / adverse effects
  • Sympathomimetics / administration & dosage
  • Sympathomimetics / adverse effects*

Substances

  • Drug Combinations
  • Nasal Decongestants
  • Nonprescription Drugs
  • Sympathomimetics
  • Acetaminophen
  • Ephedrine