Meperidine Neurotoxicity After Organ Transplantation

Abstract

Meperidine neurotoxicity, characterized by recurrent convulsions, myoclonus, and asterixis, was diagnosed in an organ transplant recipient. Aside from cyclosporine toxicity, the literature regarding neurologic complications of transplantation contains limited reference to the neurotoxicity of therapy. The case reported illustrates how pharmacokinetic factors might render transplant patients particularly vulnerable to the neurotoxic side effects of certain medications, such as meperidine.

Key Words:

• meperidine
• neurotoxicity
• organ transplantation
• asterixis
• seizures
• myoclonus