Severe respiratory depression in a beta-thalassemia patient: A case of furosemide-induced hypokalemia precipitated by morphine

Abstract

This case report describes a rare occurrence of severe respiratory failure in a 4-year-old child with beta-thalassemia after the administration of Furosemide and morphine. The patient experienced hypokalemia (potassium levels - 2.69 mmol/L) following Furosemide administration, which worsened after morphine intake, leading to Type II respiratory failure. Immediate potassium correction and naloxone administration were initiated, but unfortunately, the patient succumbed to complications related to tracheostomy on D + 39. This report emphasizes the potential risks of Furosemide-induced hypokalemia and its interaction with morphine, resulting in severe respiratory depression.