Reumofan Induced Edema

Abstract

We are presenting a first ever published report in the English literature in a patient presenting with adverse effects of an FDA-banned medicine, Reumofan, which has been marketed to treat rheumatism, joint pain, arthritis and neuralgia. It contains undisclosed traces of dexamethasone, diclofenac and methocarbamol. Some of these adverse effects include hypertension, adrenal insufficiency, gastrointestinal bleeding and sudden death. Our patient presented with progressively worsening edema affecting upper and lower extremities, abdominal wall and face. He was ruled out for venous thrombosis, and his cardiac catheterization and transthoracic echocardiogram exhibited no evidence of heart failure. His edema was successfully treated with diuresis during his hospitalization and on follow-up visit, he was found to be adrenally insufficient and hypotensive on discontinuation of Reumofan. This case illustrates the severe adverse effects that can occur as a result of Reumofan use in a patient using this medicine to treat debilitating joint pain and reinforces the importance of a thorough medication history.




J Endocrinol Metab. 2014;4(3):78-80
doi: http://dx.doi.org/10.14740/jem216w