Question

what is the medical management for patient with DKA( include pharmaceutical tx)

Answer 1

Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is a complication of diabetes. It is characterised by hyperglycemia, ketonuria and ketoacidosis.

The insulin deficiency or resistance in diabetic patients cause inhibition of glucose uptake by the cells. This results in breakdown of fat into ketone bodies in liver to meet energy requirements of body. Excess ketone accumulation leads to acidosis.

Symptoms DKA are weakness, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, difficulty breathing, tachycardia, fruity smell in breath, dry skin and mucous membrane and altered consciousness.

Treatment :

Treatment of DKA aims to treat fluid loss, treatment of hyperglycemia, treat electrolyte disturb and acid-base balance.

1. Rapid and short acting insulin to treat hyperglycemia: insulin aspart, insulin glulisine, insulin lispro, regular insulin are used treat hyperglycemia in DKA.

2. Potassium chloride to treat electrolyte imbalance

3. Alkalizing agents like sodium bicarbonate to treat acidosis.