Management of Acute Deterioration of Insulin Protocol (ADIP) Symptoms
For ADIP symptoms, immediate management includes temporarily stopping insulin, providing supportive care with hydration, monitoring glucose levels frequently, and treating pain with FDA-approved medications like pregabalin or duloxetine.
Understanding ADIP
ADIP, also known as Treatment-Induced Neuropathy of Diabetes (TIND), is a condition characterized by acute neurological symptoms that develop following rapid improvement in glycemic control. This typically occurs after sudden insulin protocol adjustments or intensive glycemic management.
Clinical Presentation
- Severe neuropathic pain (burning, shooting, electric-like sensations)
- Autonomic dysfunction (postural hypotension, gastroparesis, genitourinary issues)
- Temporal relationship between rapid glycemic improvement and symptom onset 1
Management Protocol
Immediate Interventions
Stabilize glycemic control
Pain management
Autonomic dysfunction management
Laboratory Evaluation
- Basic metabolic panel (Na, K, CO2, glucose)
- Morning cortisol and ACTH levels (to rule out adrenal insufficiency)
- Thyroid function tests
- Check for ketones if on SGLT2 inhibitors or insulin 2
Graded Management Based on Severity
Mild Symptoms (Grade 1)
- Continue insulin with close monitoring
- Initiate pain management
- Monitor glucose every 4-6 hours 2
Moderate Symptoms (Grade 2)
- Consider temporarily holding insulin until stabilized
- Assess need for hydration and supportive care
- Urgent endocrine consultation
- Initiate pain management 2
Severe Symptoms (Grade 3-4)
- Hold insulin until patient is stabilized
- Inpatient management with IV hydration (at least 2L normal saline)
- Endocrine consultation
- Aggressive pain management
- Monitor for complications 2
Special Considerations
Sick Day Management
For patients experiencing ADIP symptoms during illness:
- Increase fluid intake with limited caffeine
- Consider electrolyte replacement solutions
- Monitor blood glucose more frequently
- Check for ketones if on SGLT2 inhibitors or insulin 2
Medications to Temporarily Hold
If ADIP is accompanied by dehydration or acute illness:
- SGLT2 inhibitors
- NSAIDs
- Potassium-sparing diuretics
- Loop diuretics
- ACEIs/ARBs
- Thiazide diuretics 2
Prevention and Long-term Management
- Maintain stable glycemic control without extreme fluctuations
- Aim for gradual improvement in HbA1c rather than rapid correction
- Continue optimal long-term glycemic control to prevent progression
- Regular assessment of pain reduction using standardized scales
- Evaluation of autonomic function 1
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
- Failing to recognize the temporal relationship between rapid glycemic improvement and symptom onset
- Continuing aggressive insulin therapy despite symptoms
- Inadequate pain management
- Not monitoring for autonomic dysfunction
- Overlooking the need for hydration and electrolyte management
Remember that ADIP is self-limiting in many cases, but appropriate management can significantly reduce patient suffering and prevent complications.