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Published on: June 11, 2012
Patient Case Report: Gabapentin-Induced Hypoglycemia
William J Hayes1, Abigale Ferdinand2, Stephan Neabore3
115488South Dakota State University, College of Pharmacy, Monument Health-Flormann Clinic, Rapid City, SD, USA.
Purpose:
Gabapentin is an analog of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), but its complete mechanism is not well understood. Common adverse effects from gabapentin include somnolence, sedation, and dizziness. Hyperglycemia is listed as a possible adverse drug reaction in the labeling. Case reports describe hypoglycemia in patients with diabetes, peritoneal dialysis, and/or incomplete medication records. The following case report details a hypoglycemia episode as a potential result of a gabapentin use in a patient without diabetes.
Summary:
A 47-year old, 68 kg, white female presented to the emergency department with altered mental status. Her blood glucose level was 33 mg/dL. Gabapentin was started 1 week prior to the hypoglycemia episode. Her past medical history, concomitant medications, and other laboratory findings were not likely causes of her severe hypoglycemia.
Conclusion:
Gabapentin appears to have effects on several voltage-gated calcium channels. Hypoglycemia may be due to gabapentin binding to the alpha2delta subunit of the calcium channels in the pancreas. Future research should investigate gabapentin and the potential for hypoglycemia.
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