Final answer:
Octreotide is used to reverse the effects of hypoglycemia caused by sulfonylurea overdose by inhibiting excessive insulin release.
Step-by-step explanation:
The role of octreotide in sulfonylurea overdose is to help reverse the effects of hypoglycemia caused by excessive insulin release. Octreotide is a synthetic hormone that mimics the action of somatostatin, which inhibits insulin secretion. In cases of sulfonylurea overdose, where there is a sudden and excessive release of insulin.
Octreotide can suppress this insulin release and help restore normal blood sugar levels. Octreotide works by binding to somatostatin receptors in the pancreas and inhibiting the release of insulin. This can prevent or reverse the symptoms of hypoglycemia, such as hunger, sweating, shakiness, and weakness.
It is important to note that octreotide should be used under the supervision of a healthcare professional, as it may have side effects and interactions with other medications. It is typically administered as an injection in a hospital or emergency setting.