Prevacid is a drug prescribed to decrease production of stomach acid. Prevacid, also known as lansoprazole, belongs to a class of medications called proton pump inhibitors. Prevacid treats upper gastrointestinal illnesses such as stomach ulcers, duodenal ulcers, gastroesophageal reflux disease and Zollinger-Ellsion syndrome. According to Drugs.com, Prevacid may cause hyperglycemia, hypoglycemia and diabetes mellitus. Patients with previous histories of high or low glucose levels should consult their doctors before taking Prevacid.
Hyperglycemia
According to the American Heart Organization, hyperglycemia is an increase in blood glucose levels. Prevacid causes increase in blood glucose levels by interfering with the release of insulin from the pancreas. Insulin is a hormone released by the pancreas that decreases blood glucose levels. Common signs and symptoms of hyperglycemia include increased urination, increased thirst and increased hunger. Patients with hyperglycemia may also experience blurred vision, weight loss, frequent infections and fatigue.
Hypoglycemia
According to Drugs.com, Prevacid may cause hypoglycemia, or decreased blood glucose levels. Constant use of Prevacid damages the pancreas. The pancreas produces insulin, a hormone that controls the levels of glucose in the bloodstream. Glucose is the major source of energy for the brain and lack of enough glucose can lead to brain damage and death. Patients with hypoglycemia may experience sweating, dizziness, cloudy vision, convulsions, abnormal behavior, hunger, anxiety and tremors.
Diabetes Mellitus
According to Drugs.com, chronic use of Prevacid may cause diabetes mellitus, a metabolic disorder in which blood glucose levels are abnormally high. Diabetes mellitus occurs when beta cells of the pancreas do not produce insulin, which is a hormone needed enable the uptake of glucose by the cells. Signs and symptoms of diabetes include blurred vision, hunger, increased urination, increased thirst, weight loss and frequent infections.
