Hypoglycemia During Therapy of Diabetes

Review
In: Endotext [Internet]. South Dartmouth (MA): MDText.com, Inc.; 2000.
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Excerpt

The major cause of hypoglycemia is iatrogenic. Treatment with an insulin secretagogue, including sulfonylureas or glinides, or insulin, particularly when coupled with compromised defenses against the resulting falling plasma glucose concentrations, is the limiting factor in the glycemic management of diabetes. It causes recurrent morbidity in most people with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) and many with advanced type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and is sometimes fatal. Low blood glucose also impairs physiological and behavioral defenses against subsequent hypoglycemia, further increasing the risk of hypoglycemia and its complications including adverse cardiovascular effects. Strategies to reduce hypoglycemia are based on the individual’s age, regimen, and comorbidities. A patient-centered approach, newer insulin analogues, novel insulin delivery devices, and continuous glucose monitoring help reduce the risk of hypoglycemia and optimize glycemia. For complete coverage of all related areas of Endocrinology, please visit our on-line FREE web-text, WWW.ENDOTEXT.ORG.

Publication types

  • Review