Bulk muscles, loose cables

BMJ Case Rep. 2014 Oct 17:2014:bcr2014204424. doi: 10.1136/bcr-2014-204424.

Abstract

The accessibility and usage of body building supplements is on the rise with stronger internet marketing strategies by the industry. The dangers posed by the ingredients in them are underestimated. A healthy young man came to the emergency room with palpitations and feeling unwell. Initial history and clinical examination were non-contributory to find the cause. ECG showed atrial fibrillation. A detailed history for any over the counter or herbal medicine use confirmed that he was taking supplements to bulk muscle. One of the components in these supplements is yohimbine; the onset of symptoms coincided with the ingestion of this product and the patient is symptom free after stopping it. This report highlights the dangers to the public of consuming over the counter products with unknown ingredients and the consequential detrimental impact on health.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Amiodarone / therapeutic use
  • Anti-Arrhythmia Agents / therapeutic use
  • Atrial Fibrillation / chemically induced*
  • Atrial Fibrillation / diagnosis
  • Atrial Fibrillation / drug therapy
  • Dietary Supplements / adverse effects*
  • Electrocardiography
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Nonprescription Drugs / adverse effects*
  • Yohimbine / adverse effects*

Substances

  • Anti-Arrhythmia Agents
  • Nonprescription Drugs
  • Yohimbine
  • Amiodarone