Sometimes our blood sugar levels suddenly drop, right? But due to some special medical conditions, the body produces too much of the hormone insulin, and the blood sugar level can always be dangerously low. In medical terms, we call this the opposite of hyperglycemia, which is hypoglycemia. In such cases, a special medicine that doctors use is called diazoxide. Today, we will talk about this medicine in a little more detail and simply.
What kind of medicine is Diazoxide?
Simply put, Diazoxide is a drug that controls the production of a hormone called insulin by our body's pancreas. Normally, insulin controls blood sugar levels by sending sugar (glucose) from the blood into the cells. However, some people, especially young children, may have a condition called hyperinsulinism where they produce too much insulin. This causes blood sugar levels to drop dangerously low.
Diazoxide works by stopping this unnecessary insulin production . This then brings blood sugar levels back to normal. It often comes in the form of a liquid (oral suspension). In Sri Lanka, it can sometimes be found under the brand name Proglycem.
Things you need to tell your doctor before starting medication
Before giving this medicine to you or your child, it is important to inform your doctor about the following: This is very important.
- If you have diabetes .
- If you have heart disease .
- If you have previously had gout .
- If you have kidney disease .
- If you have an allergy to diazoxide, sulfa drugs, or any other medicine, food, or dye.
- If you are pregnant or expecting a baby .
- If you are a breastfeeding mother .
Based on this information, the doctor will decide whether or not this medication is right for you, and if so, how to give it.
How to use the medicine correctly?
Since this is a liquid medicine, be careful with these things when using it.
1. Shake well: Shake the bottle well before each use.
2. Accurate measurement: Use only the special measuring spoon (marked spoon) or dropper that comes with the medicine. Do not use household teaspoons or rice spoons. Because they do not give the exact dose. It can be dangerous. If you do not have such a measure, ask your doctor about it.
3. On time: Give the medicine at the prescribed time and at the prescribed interval as prescribed by the doctor. Do not give more than the prescribed amount.
4. When given to children: This medicine is even given to newborns under certain special circumstances. But it should only be done under the supervision of a pediatrician . Therefore, be especially careful if you are giving this medicine to a child.
What if I forget to take a dose of medicine?
If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the scheduled time. Never take a double dose to make up for a forgotten dose.
What to do if you overdose?
If you think you've taken more medicine than you thought, don't delay.
Immediately call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital . Or go to the nearest hospital Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) as soon as possible. Treat this as an emergency.
What are the possible side effects?
Like any medicine, Diazoxide can cause some side effects. Some of these are serious, while others are common. The table below provides a clear picture of these.
| Side effect | Description |
|---|---|
| Serious side effects that should be reported to your doctor immediately | |
| Allergic reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips or tongue. |
| Vision changes | Blurred vision, changes in perception. |
| Chest pain, changes in heart rate | Feeling like your heart is beating fast or irregularly, chest pain. |
| Changes in urine and excessive thirst | Dark or cloudy urine, decreased urine output, excessive thirst, and a fruity odor on the breath. |
| Body swelling or weight gain | Unusual swelling of the body, especially the limbs, or sudden weight gain. |
| Other serious symptoms | Dizziness, falls, unusual bruising or bleeding, unusual twitching of the eyes or mouth, extreme fatigue. |
| Side effects that are usually not serious, but should be reported to the doctor if they persist | |
| Abnormal hair growth | Abnormal hair growth on the body, especially on the face and limbs of girls and women (hirsutism). |
| Digestive system problems | Loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, changes in taste. |
| Headache | Headache. |
Interactions with other medications
Other medications you are taking may interact with Diazoxide, especially:
- Diuretics
- Medication for high blood pressure
- Epilepsy medications such as Phenytoin
- Blood thinners such as Warfarin
Therefore, give your doctor a complete list of all medications you are taking (including vitamins, over-the-counter medications, and supplements).
Take-Home Message
- Diazoxide is a medicine used to treat a specific condition in which blood sugar levels drop too low. Use this only on medical advice.
- When giving medication, use only the special measuring spoon or dropper that comes with it. Avoid using household spoons.
- Before starting the medication, tell your doctor about all your medical conditions and all other medications you are taking.
- If you experience any severe side effects such as chest pain, difficulty breathing, or body swelling, see a doctor immediately.
- Overdose is an emergency. Call the National Poisons Information Center immediately or go to the nearest hospital Emergency Department (ETU).
- Keep this medicine out of the reach of children, away from light, and at room temperature.
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