Insulin is a hormone produced naturally by the pancreas, an organ located behind the stomach. This hormone plays a central role in regulating blood sugar, or glucose, levels in the body. It enables cells to absorb glucose from the bloodstream, converting it into energy or storing it for later use. An insulin overdose occurs when an individual takes more insulin than their body requires, leading to dangerously low blood sugar, a condition known as hypoglycemia.
Understanding Insulin’s Purpose and Overdose
Insulin’s primary function involves moving glucose from the bloodstream into cells throughout the body. Glucose, derived from food and the body’s stored reserves, serves as the main energy source for all cells. Insulin acts like a key, unlocking cell membranes to allow glucose to enter and be utilized for energy or converted into glycogen and fats for storage.
When excess insulin is present, cells absorb too much glucose from the blood, causing blood sugar levels to drop significantly. This state of severe hypoglycemia deprives organs, particularly the brain, of their necessary glucose supply. The brain relies almost exclusively on glucose for fuel, and without adequate amounts, its function becomes impaired. This glucose deprivation triggers physiological responses, leading to diverse symptoms.
Recognizing the Signs
The signs and symptoms of an insulin overdose are essentially those of hypoglycemia, which can manifest rapidly. Mild symptoms often include confusion, irritability, anxiety, and a feeling of “brain fog.” Individuals may also experience shakiness, weakness, dizziness, a rapid heartbeat, sweating, chills, blurred vision, hunger, and nausea.
As blood sugar levels continue to fall, more severe neurological symptoms can emerge. These include disorientation, slurred speech, clumsiness, and difficulty with coordination. In the most severe cases, an insulin overdose can lead to seizures, loss of consciousness, or even coma, which necessitates immediate medical attention.
Immediate Actions and Medical Care
If an insulin overdose is suspected and the person is conscious, immediate action is necessary to raise blood sugar levels. The individual should consume 15 to 20 grams of fast-acting carbohydrates. Examples include glucose tablets or gel, half a cup of regular soda, sweetened fruit juice, or hard candies. This approach is often referred to as the “15-15 rule”: consume 15 grams of carbohydrates and recheck blood sugar after 15 minutes, repeating if levels remain below 70 mg/dL.
If the person is unconscious, having seizures, or unable to swallow, do not attempt to give them food or drink, as this can lead to choking. Instead, emergency services should be called immediately. Paramedics or hospital staff may administer intravenous glucose to quickly restore blood sugar levels. A glucagon injection can also be given, which is a hormone that prompts the liver to release stored glucose, rapidly increasing blood sugar. It is important for individuals at risk of severe hypoglycemia to have a glucagon kit readily available, and for family or caregivers to know how to use it.
Preventing Accidental Overdoses
Preventing accidental insulin overdoses involves careful management and consistent practices. Always double-check insulin dosages before injection and ensure clarity on the type of insulin being used, as rapid-acting and long-acting insulins have different effects. Reading all packaging information carefully and consulting a doctor or pharmacist if anything is unclear can help avoid mistakes. Maintaining a consistent meal schedule and avoiding skipped meals after taking insulin are also important, as this can prevent blood sugar from dropping too low.
Regular communication with healthcare providers about insulin regimens is important. They can help adjust doses based on lifestyle, diet, and exercise, which all influence insulin needs. Wearing a medical identification bracelet can alert others to your condition in an emergency, ensuring appropriate care.