Insulin Overdose
Description
Causes low blood glucose levels and if severe can result in coma, stroke and death. The overdose can occur by accident through a medication error, or by purposeful injection. Insulin overdose can also occur if the normal dose is taken and the patient doesn't eat enough calories for the dose injected. Insulin overdose and a low blood sugar should always be considered when a diabetic is not acting normally.
Symptoms
Confusion, sleepiness, slurred speech, incoordination, seizure, coma.
Tests
A history and physical exam will be performed. Once the low blood sugar is discovered a search for why too much insulin was taken is undertaken.
- CBC
- Chem 12
- UA
- X-Ray
Treatment
Reverse the low sugar either with oral or intravenous glucose. Intramuscular glucagon can be given to stimulate the body to produce extra glucose. The cause of the insulin overdose must be addressed and reversed to prevent a recurrence. for more information and help call your local poison center at 1-800-222-1222.
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