Question - Calcium channel blocker overdoses are associated with the development of hyperglycemia. What is the clinical significance of calcium channel blocker agent related hyperglycemia?
Answer- The cited article retrospectively reviewed adult patients suffering acute verapamil or diltiazem overdoses and concluded “Serum glucose concentrations correlate directly with the severity of the calcium channel blocker intoxication. The percentage of increase of the peak glucose concentration is a better predictor of severity of illness than hemodynamic derangements.” These authors also state “ If validated prospectively, serum glucose concentration alone might be an indicator to begin hyperinsulinemia-euglycemic therapy” in these cases. (Levine M. et al. Assessment of hyperglycemia after calcium channel blocker overdoses involving diltiazem or verapamil. 2007 Crit Care Med 35(9): 2071-2075)