Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 21, 2026

A Method for Mouse Pancreatic Islet Isolation and Intracellular cAMP Determination
Published on: June 25, 2014
Insulin poisoning with suicidal intent
Abhay Gundgurthi1, Sandeep Kharb, M K Dutta
1Department of Endocrinology, Army Hospital (Research & Referral), Delhi Cantt, India.
Abstract:
We report a 27-year-old paramedical lady with no known comorbidities, who presented with rapid-onset coma with hypoglycemia (plasma glucose at admission was 35 mg/dL). Clinical alertness suspected and confirmed the diagnosis of exogenous insulin administration probably with suicidal intent. During the course of her ICU stay, she developed bradycardia and hypotension which required ionotropic support. She remained in coma for 90 hours. A total of 470 g of dextrose was infused until she regained consciousness. No other complications of insulin overdose were observed during her stay in the hospital. Recovery was complete without any residual neurological deficits. Insulin administration should be kept in differential diagnosis when any case presents with coma and hypoglycemia, especially in paramedical personnel.
Related Concept Videos
Insulin: Biosynthesis, Chemistry, and Preparation
Damage or functional impairment of β-cells inhibits insulin production, leading to diabetes. Diabetes treatment primarily uses...
Insulin: Dosing Regimen and Adverse Effects
The basal dose constitutes about 40%-50% of the total daily dose, with the rest as premeal insulin. The mealtime insulin dose should mirror...
Hypoglycemia and Glucagon
Insulin Formulations: Types and Delivery
Short-acting insulins are divided into rapid-acting...
Type I Diabetes II: Pathophysiology
Pharmaceutical Poisoning: Potential Scenarios

