Prevacid, which is lansoprazole, is an anti-ulcer proton pump inhibitor used to treat upper gastrointestinal diseases of the esophagus, stomach and duodenum. Prevacid decreases the secretion of stomach acid and aids in the healing of ulcers and esophagitis caused by gastroesophageal reflux disease. Prevacid is also used in patients with Zollinger-Ellison syndrome, a disorder in which the stomach over-produces acid. According to Drugs.com, diabetes mellitus is an adverse side effect of Prevacid.
Prevacid and Diabetes Mellitus
According to Drugs.com, use of Prevacid may cause diabetes mellitus. The American Heart Organization states that diabetes mellitus is a metabolic disease characterized by high blood glucose levels that result from impairment in insulin secretion. Prevacid damages the pancreas, an organ that produces insulin. Normally, blood glucose levels are controlled by insulin, a hormone produced by the pancreas. When blood glucose levels increase, especially after eating, insulin is released from the pancreas and helps to turn glucose into energy. Patients with diabetes mellitus due to damaged pancreas lack enough insulin and therefore have high blood glucose levels.
Symptoms of Diabetes Mellitus
According to the American Heart Organization, early symptoms of untreated diabetes are cause by elevated blood sugar levels and loss of glucose in the urine. Patients experience increased thirst, increased urination and increased hunger. Patients may also experience weight loss, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, blurred vision, frequent infections, lethargy and coma.
Diagnosis of Diabetes Mellitus
According to the American Health Organization, diabetes mellitus is diagnosed using a fasting blood glucose test. Patients are required to fast overnight. A blood sample is drawn and tested for blood glucose. Fasting plasma glucose levels of more than 126 milligrams per deciliter on two or more tests indicate diabetes.
Treatment of Diabetes Mellitus
The American Health Organization states that diabetes mellitus is treated using artificial insulin and oral antidiabetics. Examples of oral antidiabetics include include Micronase, Avandia and Metformin. Patients should make sure they eat food after injecting insulin and taking oral antidiabetics in order to avoid low blood sugar. The doctors may also instruct patients on lifestyle changes such as cessation of smoking and maintaining a healthy weight.
Complications of Diabetes
According to the American Heart Organization, uncontrolled blood sugar levels can lead to nerve damage, kidney failure and blindness. Diabetes damages nerves and causes problems with sensation. Diabetes also damages blood vessels and increases the risk of heart attack, stroke and kidney failure.
