Suicidal overdoses with hypoglycemic agents

Suicide attempts using hypoglycemic agents are uncommon but are associated with a high level of morbidity and mortality. Their recognition is sometimes difficult and the duration of hypoglycemic effect is often prolonged. Two cases that illustrate the difficulties encountered in recognition and therapy are described. Effective therapy depends on adequate glucose supplementation to maintain euglycemia. Therapeutic intervention often must be maintained for several days. Glucocorticoids may be useful in difficult cases. Other modes of therapy, including glucagon, are unproven or controversial.