Fatal overdose from a sustained-release theophylline preparation.

A 26-year-old woman ingested approximately 9 g of theophylline (Theodur). She exhibited agitation, generalized seizures, hyperglycemia, hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypophosphatemia, and diuresis. Later in her hospital course rhabdomyolysis, myoglobinuria, and acute renal failure occurred. Hemodialysis was performed to correct electrolyte imbalance. She subsequently died of intractable shock and hyperkalemia. This case illustrates the metabolic abnormalities which may occur with severe theophylline intoxication.