Isophane Insulin 40IU

Isophane Insulin 40IU — Uses and Benefits

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

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Controlling high blood sugar in type 1 diabetes
• Controlling high blood sugar in type 2 diabetes when other treatments are not enough
• Managing diabetes during pregnancy, when advised by a doctor
• Used along with diet and exercise as part of overall diabetes care

HOW IT WORKS

• It is an intermediate-acting insulin that lowers blood sugar by helping cells absorb glucose from the blood
• It also helps the liver store excess glucose, keeping blood sugar levels steady over several hours
• Its effect lasts longer than short-acting insulin, giving more stable sugar control between doses

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• It is not used for treating diabetic ketoacidosis in emergency situations, where fast-acting insulin is needed
• It is not a cure for diabetes; it only helps manage blood sugar levels
• It is not used for weight loss or for non-diabetic low blood sugar conditions

How to Use Isophane Insulin 40IU

HOW TO TAKE IT

• Use this insulin exactly as prescribed by your doctor, usually by injection under the skin (subcutaneous)
• It is often given once or twice daily at the same time each day
• Rotate the injection site (thigh, abdomen, upper arm) to avoid skin problems
• Mix the vial gently by rolling between your palms before use, as this insulin is a cloudy suspension
• Do not shake vigorously as it can cause bubbles or affect the dose
• Always check the insulin looks evenly cloudy and has no clumps before injecting

IF YOU MISS A DOSE

• Take it as soon as you remember, but if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one
• Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one
• Contact your doctor if you are unsure about timing after a missed dose

STORAGE

• Store unopened vials or pens in a refrigerator (2-8°C), not in the freezer
• Once in use, may be kept at room temperature (below 25°C) as advised on the pack, away from direct sunlight and heat
• Keep out of reach of children
• Discard if the insulin looks clumped, discoloured or has particles in it

Isophane Insulin 40IU — Side Effects

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) causing sweating, shakiness or hunger
• Pain, redness or swelling at the injection site
• Weight gain

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Thickening or pitting of skin at injection site (lipodystrophy) if injected in the same spot repeatedly
• Blurred vision, especially when starting treatment
• Swelling of hands or feet due to fluid retention

SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS — STOP AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY

• Severe hypoglycemia with confusion, seizures or loss of consciousness
• Signs of allergic reaction such as rash, itching, swelling of face or throat, or difficulty breathing
• Rapid heartbeat, chest pain or severe dizziness

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

Isophane Insulin 40IU — Safety Information and Precautions

This is a prescription-only medicine in India and should only be used under medical supervision.

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE IF YOU

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

TELL YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING IF YOU

• Have kidney or liver disease
• Are pregnant, planning pregnancy or breastfeeding
• Have other hormonal disorders like thyroid problems
• Are currently unwell, fasting, or have irregular eating patterns
• Are taking other medicines for diabetes or blood pressure

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• Oral diabetes medicines, which may increase risk of low blood sugar
• Steroids, which can raise blood sugar and affect insulin needs
• Beta-blockers, which may mask symptoms of low blood sugar
• Alcohol, which can increase risk of hypoglycemia

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I stop insulin once my sugar is controlled?

No, insulin should not be stopped without your doctor's advice as diabetes is a long-term condition needing ongoing management.

Can I mix this insulin with other insulins in the same syringe?

Some insulins can be mixed, but only do so if your doctor or pharmacist has specifically instructed you on how.

Will this insulin cure my diabetes?

• No, it only helps control blood sugar levels; it does not cure diabetes.
• Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.