Simvastatin-Induced Rhabdomyolysis Following Cyclosporine Treatment for Uveitis

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to heighten awareness of a potentially life-threatening drug interaction in patients with chronic uveitis treated with cyclosporine. A 69-year-old female with chronic posterior uveitis was treated with cyclosporine while on concomitant oral simvastatin for hypercholesterolemia. Rhabdomyolysis developed with acute renal failure from the probable interaction between these drugs. Discontinuation of simvastatin and cyclosporine resulted in resolution of rhabdomyolysis and normalization of renal function. Statins are associated with a small, dose-related risk of myopathy, myositis, and rhabdomyolysis. Cyclosporine is a potent inhibitor of simvastatin metabolism, and may therefore facilitate simvastatin-induced rhabdomyolysis. Concomitant use of statins and cyclosporine should be avoided.

KEYWORDS:

• Cyclosporine
• immunosuppression
• uveitis