PROGLYCEM (DIAZOXIDE)

Proglycem Description

Proglycem is a potassium activator drug prescribed to treat chronic low blood sugar, known as hypoglycemia. This is usually caused by a pancreatic tumor called an insulinoma that produces increased amounts of insulin causing your blood sugar levels to drop very low. The majority of these tumors are benign and may be in a position to be surgically removed. Proglycem may be taken as a long-term medicine to treat those that are not operable.

How Proglycem Acts in Your Body

Proglycem works by acting, in short, on potassium channels and eventually causes low calcium. As a result, insulin production is decreased and your blood sugar will stabilize. Your doctor may also prescribe a diuretic (water pill) to take while on Proglycem as the active ingredient called Diazoxide can cause your body to retain extra fluid.

You should always carry some hard candies, fruit juice drink, or glucose tablets with you at all times in case you find your blood sugar is testing too low. If this occurs frequently, ask your doctor id your dosage of Proglycem need adjusting.

Conditions Treated by Proglycem

Hypoglycemia is not a medical condition in itself; rather it is a sign of a health problem. Your blood sugar levels are usually checked regularly if you are diabetic, but other problems with your pancreas can arise that affects the production of insulin that controls your blood sugar to keep it at a safe level.

Your brain requires a continuous supply of glucose to work properly as it cannot make or store glucose. Early warnings of mild hypoglycemia can present as hunger, accelerated heart rate, and feeling anxious. Your doctor can test your blood for glucose and insulin as a way to determine if you have insulinoma. Proglycem is not a cure for insulinomas, but it can help you control hypoglycemia.

Before You Take Proglycem

Ask your doctor if Proglycem is safe to take if you are pregnant, trying to become pregnant, or are breast feeding. To make sure it is safe for you to take Proglycem, advise your doctor if you have any of the following: high blood pressure; kidney disease; congestive heart failure; low levels of potassium in your blood; or gout.

Precautions When Taking Proglycem

List all over-the-counter drugs and Rx medicine you take and include herbal, dietary, and vitamin supplements. Taking certain drugs together can change how your body reacts to the medication or may cause unwanted side effects. Store all medications out of children’s reach and never them with anyone else.

Possible Side Effects of Proglycem

• Swelling of feet or lower legs
• Nausea or vomiting
• Decreased sense of taste
• Fine hair growth on the face, arms, and back
• Diarrhea or constipation

You should contact your doctor immediately if you experience any of the following side effects: rapid weight gain; shortness of breath; blurred vision or eye pain; light-headed feeling; symptoms of high blood sugar (increased thirst, increased urination, hunger).