Insulin

Please note: these are basic guidelines, refer to your doctor for a professional medical opinion.

Popular brand names:

Actraphane, Apidra, Biosulin R, Humalog, Humulin N, Lantus, Levemir, Novomix 30, NovoRapid, Optisulin, Protaphane HM

Drug group:

Drug for diabetes

Prescription needed?

Yes

What does it do?

• Insulin is the only effective treatment in Type 1 diabetes mellitus
• It is given by injection to supplement or replace natural insulin
• It is also used in Type 2 diabetes when there is poor control on oral agents
• Insulin is available in short/medium/long-acting preparations - combinations often used

How does it work?

• Insulin is a naturally occurring hormone made by the beta cells in the pancreas
• Insulin causes glucose in the blood stream to be absorbed by cells in muscles, the liver and adipose tissue

How should it be used?

• Your dose may need to be adjusted if you are ill, or if you have had changes in diet/exercise
• The treatment of diabetes includes a carefully controlled diet
• Keep refrigerated, once opened store at room temperature for 1 month, do not freeze
• Eat or drink something sugary if symptoms of low blood sugar develop

What is the typical dosage?

Your doctor will recommend a dosage tailored to your need, but typically:

• Injection (syringe or pen) used 1–5 x daily
• Exact timing of injections is tailored to individual needs, follow instructions given

When should I stop using it?

Do not stop taking the drug without consulting your doctor. 
              

Is it safe for prolonged use?

No problems expected, but regular home monitoring of blood sugar levels is required. All diabetic patients need regular medical examinations, eye tests, blood tests for kidney function, and urine tests.                   

What are the possible side effects?

The following have been reported:

• More common: symptoms of low blood sugar or hypoglycaemia (hunger, dizziness/faintness, sweating, weakness, trembling, confusion); Irritation at the injection site
• Less common: dimpling of the skin at the injection site, eyesight problems
• Report to your doctor before taking your next dose if you experience: Serious allergic reactions (itchy rash, facial swelling, and breathing difficulties)

OVERDOSE ACTION

Seek immediate medical advice. Large overdoses can cause seizures or loss of consciousness.

What other considerations are important?

Dosage may be adjusted by your doctor under certain conditions.

• Certain health problems: previous allergic reaction to insulin
• Other medicines: some antibiotics, monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), oral antidiabetic drugs, corticosteroids, diuretics, beta blockers, high sugar drugs especially cough syrups
• Pregnancy and breast-feeding: No evidence of risk but dose adjustment may be necessary
• Children: Reduced dose necessary
• Over 60: No special problems
• Driving and hazardous work: Avoid if you have signs of low blood sugar
• Alcohol: Avoid, alcoholic drinks upset diabetic control
• Surgery and general anaesthetics Insulin requirements may increase during surgery