A comparative study of the effects of hypoglycemic agents on serum electrolytes in the diabetic patients.

30 patients comprised of 3 equal groups which were given 3 types of treatment. Group I given metformin HCl (1+1), maintained a sugar level of 129-340 mg/100 ml. Group II given glibenclamide(1+1), maintained a sugar level of 120-325 mg/100 ml. Group III given a combination of both drugs, maintained a sugar level 112 mg - 46 mg/100 ml. The most suitable of the 3 was the last treatment. Serum electrolytes were measured in all the three groups. Patients taking metformin HCl and glibenclamide showed non significant low sodium with high potassium values respectively. When used in combination, they maintained normal values. On the other hand, serum calcium levels were significantly high in patients taking metformin HCl only; when compared with glibenclamide. However, when both drugs were given to patients, serum calcium remained at normal levels.