Insulin coma is an emergency condition that occurs when there is a sharp decrease in blood glucose levels caused by an overdose of the hormone insulin or its analogues. In the absence of timely medical care and specific therapy, coma can lead to death.
Insulin is a hormone that regulates glucose levels in the body and maintains normal levels. It is produced by beta cells of the pancreas and released into the bloodstream. If blood sugar levels drop, pancreatic cells produce excessive amounts of insulin to lower the level. As a result, this leads to a sharp decrease in blood sugar levels and the development of insulin coma.
Symptoms of an insulin coma include dizziness, weakness, loss of consciousness, involuntary urination and disorientation. Convulsions and comatose states may also occur.
If left untreated, this condition can become critical and lead to severe complications such as shock, cerebral edema, hypoglycemic coma and death. Treatment of coma insulinica involves the administration of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH)