Drugs
Respiratory alkalosis can be caused by various prescription and over-the-counter drugs when taken in high doses. Certain medications such as diuretics, laxatives, and antibiotics can prompt the kidneys to eliminate excessive acid, resulting in an overly alkaline serum pH. Similarly, sedatives that suppress respiratory function can produce similar effects. Hyperventilation can also be induced by nicotine and epinephrine, a drug that continues to be widely used in medical applications.
Tetany
Tetany is a medical condition characterized by sharp, involuntary muscle contractions that result from the rapid firing of muscle cells or nerves. These sudden cramps, along with muscle twitching and tingling, are caused by low levels of carbon dioxide. In some cases, individuals may experience tetany after an operation, which can lead to hyperventilation and subsequently trigger respiratory alkalosis due to anxiety.