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Possible gatifloxacin-induced hypoglycemia.
Stacey E Baker1, Matthew C Hangii
1Department of Pharmacy Services, University of Virginia Health System, Charlottesville, VA 22908, USA. seb9r@virginia.edu
The Annals of Pharmacotherapy
|October 26, 2002
Summary
Gatifloxacin may cause hypoglycemia, even in patients with diabetes. This case report highlights a potential drug-related event in a patient with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Endocrinology
- Respiratory Medicine
Background:
- Gatifloxacin is an antibiotic sometimes used for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) exacerbations.
- Patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus are at increased risk for glucose dysregulation.
Observation:
- A 73-year-old male with type 2 diabetes and COPD developed severe hypoglycemia (22 mg/dL) after 2 days of gatifloxacin therapy.
- The patient had discontinued his oral antidiabetic medications but continued gatifloxacin before presenting to the emergency department.
Findings:
- Hypoglycemia resolved within 24 hours of discontinuing gatifloxacin.
- The Naranjo probability scale indicated a possible drug-related event.
- Gatifloxacin's mechanism for altering glucose homeostasis remains unclear.
Implications:
- This case suggests gatifloxacin can precipitate hypoglycemia, particularly in at-risk patients.
- Clinicians should monitor glucose levels in patients receiving gatifloxacin, especially those with diabetes.
- Awareness of this adverse effect is crucial for patient safety.