Family Nurse Practitioner Exam

Which of the following medical events is described as nocturnal hypoglycemia stimulating hepatic glucose production?

1. Somogyi effect

2. Dawn phenomenon

3. Insulin resistance

4. Hypoglycemic unawareness

The correct answer is: Somogyi effect

The Somogyi effect describes a phenomenon in which low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) occurs during the night and triggers a rebound effect. In this case, the body responds to a hypoglycemic episode by stimulating the liver to produce glucose, thus increasing blood sugar levels, often resulting in elevated morning blood glucose levels. This response involves the activation of counter-regulatory hormones, such as glucagon and epinephrine, which promote hepatic gluconeogenesis and glycogenolysis. Understanding the Somogyi effect is crucial for managing patients with diabetes, as it emphasizes the need to monitor blood glucose levels throughout the night and adjust insulin doses accordingly to prevent nocturnal hypoglycemia and its subsequent rebound hyperglycemia.