Hypoglycemic syncope induced by a combination of cibenzoline and angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitor

Jpn Heart J. 2001 Mar;42(2):255-9. doi: 10.1536/jhj.42.255.

Abstract

A 65-year-old Japanese woman with dilated cardiomyopathy, hypothyroidism and refractory sustained ventricular tachycardia experienced a near-death hypoglycemic syncope. The attack seemed to be induced by a high level of serum insulin, probably due to cibenzoline and by concomitant use of an angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitor (ACEI). Additionally, decreased food intake because of a severe toothache may have contributed to the deterioration of her condition. This case warns cardiologists that a combined cibenzoline and ACEI therapy can provoke serious adverse effects such as hypoglycemic syncope in the elderly. Therefore, the possibility of a hypoglycemic attack associated with these drugs should be explained to patients who are in poor condition.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitors / adverse effects*
  • Anti-Arrhythmia Agents / adverse effects*
  • Cardiomyopathy, Dilated / drug therapy
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Hypoglycemia / chemically induced*
  • Hypothyroidism / drug therapy
  • Imidazoles / adverse effects*
  • Syncope / chemically induced*
  • Tachycardia, Ventricular / drug therapy

Substances

  • Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitors
  • Anti-Arrhythmia Agents
  • Imidazoles
  • cifenline