Aciphex or raberprazole is a proton pump inhibitor used to block the production of stomach acid. Aciphex works by blocking acid pumps that are found on specialized stomach cells responsible for stimulation secretion of stomach acid. According to Abconlinepharmacy.com, use of Aciphex may cause hyperglycemia or an increase in blood sugar levels. Aciphex should be used with caution in patients with diabetes mellitus due to its effect on blood glucose levels.
Aciphex Uses
According to Drugs.com, Aciphex is used to treat gastrointestinal conditions that are caused by overproduction of stomach acid. Aciphex is mainly prescribed to treat and prevent gastroesophageal reflux disease, frequent heartburn, erosive esophagitis, ulcerations of the esophagus, stomach ulcers, duodenal ulcers and Zollinger-Ellision syndrome. GERD is a condition in which stomach refluxes back into the esophagus and causes injury to the lining of the esophagus. Zollinger-Ellison syndrome is a hypersecretory condition in which the stomach overproduces acid.
Aciphex and Hyperglycemia
Abconlinepharmacy.com states that, frequent use of Aciphex may cause an increase in blood sugar levels. An increase in blood sugar levels is known as hyperglycemia. According to Diabetes.org, hyperglycemia is a common disorder in people who have diabetes mellitus. Normally, insulin produced by the pancreas controls blood sugar levels by aiding in the transport of blood glucose into the cells. Hyperglycemia occurs when there is too little insulin or when insulin is available but the body cannot use it properly.
Symptoms of Hyperglycemia
Diabetes.org notes that early signs of diabetes include increased thirst, increased hunger and frequent urination. Later signs of hyperglycemia include blurred vision, headache, fatigue, acetone breath, nausea and vomiting, dry mouth, dry skin, confusion, weakness and coma. Patients who notice any of these symptoms while taking Aciphex should contact the doctor immediately.
Hyperglycemia Treatment
Diabetes.org states that severe hyperglycemia requires hospitalization and is treated using artificial insulin and fluid replacements. Artificial insulin lowers blood sugar levels. Since high glucose levels cause frequent urination, it can lead to dehydration. Fluids are usually administered to treat dehydration.
Complications of Hyperglycemia
According to Diabetes.org, patients who do not receive treatment for hyperglycemia may develop serious complications such as diabetic ketoacidosis and hyperosmolar syndrome and diabetic coma. Diabetic ketoacidosis develops when the body does not have enough insulin to transport blood glucose into the cells. Therefore, the body lacks a source of fuel and breaks down fats so as to provide energy to the body. When the body breaks down fats, ketones are produced. Large amounts of ketones in the blood are dangerous and causes the body to in acidic state, which leads to diabetic coma.In the long term, untreated hyperglycemia, can lead to diabetes related complications affecting the eyes, kidneys, nerves and heart.
