Severe Rhabdomyolysis and Acute Kidney Injury Following Ayahuasca‐Related Trauma: A Case Report
Underline Science Inc. October 7, 2025 American Medical Association 2025, Bedi, Ashmeet
A 32-year-old man developed severe rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney injury after ingesting ayahuasca, a hallucinogenic brew. His creatine phosphokinase peaked at 170,329 U/L and creatinine rose to 12.8 mg/dL by hospital day 5. Aggressive intravenous fluids (4-6 liters per day of isotonic saline) and diuretics (bumetanide, metolazone) were used to manage fluid balance. By discharge on day 9, his creatinine had decreased without needing dialysis. Ayahuasca may cause muscle ischemia through vasoconstriction and mitochondrial stress, a distinct mechanism from other causes like cocaine or statins. This case illustrates conservative management that avoided renal replacement therapy.