glucose-insulin-potassium

Glucose-insulin-potassium (GIK) is a therapeutic solution initially advocated for the treatment of acute myocardial infarction. It functions as a metabolic support to ischemic myocardium by improving the efficiency of energy use, reducing circulating free fatty acids, and providing anti-apoptotic effects. GIK was originally proposed as a polarizing agent to promote electrical stability in the heart during ischemic episodes. The solution typically consists of glucose, insulin, and potassium chloride administered intravenously. Clinical studies have shown that GIK therapy can reduce hospital mortality in patients with acute myocardial infarction, with a proportional mortality reduction of approximately 28%. When used in combination with other agents like dipyridamole, GIK has demonstrated beneficial effects on capillary perfusion against ischemia/reperfusion-induced injury, including reduction of leukocyte and platelet adhesion to blood vessels.

Other names

glucose-insulin-potassium solutionGIK solutionGIK infusion