Insulin

Insulin — Uses and Benefits

Insulin is used to treat diabetes mellitus, a condition in which the body cannot control blood sugar levels properly.

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Type 1 diabetes, where the body does not produce insulin
• Type 2 diabetes, when tablets and lifestyle changes are not enough
• Diabetes occurring during pregnancy (gestational diabetes)
• High blood sugar during illness, surgery, or hospital admission

HOW IT WORKS

• Insulin helps move sugar (glucose) from the blood into the body's cells
• It lowers high blood sugar and helps cells use glucose for energy
• Different insulin types act fast, slowly, or over a long duration to keep sugar levels steady through the day

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• It is not a cure for diabetes
• It does not treat type 2 diabetes symptoms caused by other conditions
• It is not used for weight loss or bodybuilding purposes
• It should not be used without a confirmed diagnosis of diabetes or a doctor's advice

Insulin therapy works best along with a proper diet, regular exercise, and monitoring of blood sugar levels as advised by your doctor.

How to Use Insulin

HOW TO TAKE IT

• Insulin is given as an injection under the skin (subcutaneous), usually in the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm
• Use only as prescribed by your doctor - the type, dose, and timing depend on your blood sugar pattern
• Rotate injection sites to avoid skin thickening
• Check the insulin looks normal (clear or evenly cloudy, depending on type) before use
• Learn the correct injection technique from your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist
• Do not change the type or brand of insulin without your doctor's advice

IF YOU MISS A DOSE

• Take it as soon as you remember, but check your blood sugar first
• If it is close to the next dose, contact your doctor for advice rather than doubling the dose
• Never skip doses regularly, as this can lead to dangerously high blood sugar

STORAGE

• Store unopened insulin in a refrigerator (2-8°C), do not freeze
• Once in use, most insulins can be kept at room temperature (below 25-30°C) for a limited time as per the pack instructions
• Keep away from direct sunlight and heat
• Discard as per the expiry date and any in-use time limit mentioned on the pack

Insulin — Side Effects

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) - sweating, shakiness, hunger
• Redness, swelling or itching at the injection site
• Weight gain

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Thickening or pitting of skin at repeated injection sites (lipodystrophy)
• Blurred vision in the first few weeks of treatment
• Swelling of hands or feet

SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS — STOP AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY

• Severe low blood sugar with confusion, seizures or loss of consciousness
• Signs of allergic reaction - rash, breathlessness, swelling of face or throat
• Very fast weight gain with swelling, suggesting fluid retention
• Persistent very high blood sugar with vomiting, breathlessness, or fruity-smelling breath

This is not a complete list. Report any unusual or persistent symptom to your doctor or pharmacist.

Insulin — Safety Information and Precautions

Insulin is a prescription-only medicine in India and must be used only under medical supervision.

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE IF YOU

• Are having an episode of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) at the moment
• Are allergic to insulin or any of its components

TELL YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING IF YOU

• Have kidney or liver disease
• Have a history of frequent low blood sugar episodes
• Are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding
• Are unwell, have fever, infection, or are about to undergo surgery
• Drink alcohol regularly
• Are already taking other diabetes medicines

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• Other diabetes medicines (tablets or injections), which can increase the risk of low blood sugar
• Steroids, some blood pressure medicines, and hormonal medicines, which can affect blood sugar control
• Beta-blockers, which can mask the warning signs of low blood sugar
• Alcohol, which can increase the risk of low blood sugar

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can insulin be taken as a tablet instead of an injection?

No, insulin is broken down in the stomach if taken by mouth, so it must be given as an injection.

Will I need insulin for my whole life?

This depends on your type of diabetes and how well your blood sugar is controlled; your doctor will guide you.

Can I drive after taking insulin?

• You can, but be careful of low blood sugar symptoms like dizziness or shakiness, especially before driving.
• Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.