Low-dose versus high-dose insulin therapy for diabetic ketoacidosis.
The effects of low-dose continuous insulin therapy were compared to those of high-dose subcutaneous and intravenous insulin therapy in six episodes of diabetic ketoacidosis. Time for correction of acidosis, ketosis, and hyperglycemia were similar for both regimens. The high-dose method required more exogenous glucose and supplemental potassium to avoid hypoglycemia and/or hypokalemia during treatment. Levels of cortisol, human growth hormone, and glucagon, initially elevated in most patients, showed a progressive decline with both modes of therapy. Plasma insulin remained remarkably stable during both treatment regimens, but remained within the physiologic range only in patients receiving low-dose therapy. Our study suggest that either modality is effective in the treatment of diabetic ketoacidosis.
D000328:Adult; D016883:Diabetic Ketoacidosis / Q000097:blood / Q000188:drug therapy*; D005934:Glucagon / Q000097:blood; D006207:Half-Life; D006801:Humans; D007263:Infusions, Parenteral; D007279:Injections, Subcutaneous; D007328:Insulin / Q000008:administration & dosage* / Q000627:therapeutic use; D007333:Insulin Resistance; D008875:Middle Aged
D007328:Insulin; D005934:Glucagon