Development of necrotizing enterocolitis in neonatal patients treated with diazoxide

Neonatal hypoglycemia has a few possible underlying etiologies, the most common of which is hyperinsulinemia. Diazoxide is often used in the management of hypoglycemic hyperinsulinemia. It has been well-documented to cause potential fluid retention, pulmonary hypertension, and mild thrombocytopenia, although other adverse events have not been commonly reported. Here, we present two cases of necrotizing enterocolitis following diazoxide use in neonatal patients. Through these case studies, the authors describe an uncommon potential adverse effect of diazoxide and add to the limited reported data surrounding its use to further inform decision-making in this vulnerable population.