How does insulin work?
Insulin lowers blood sugar levels by helping glucose enter the body’s cells, where it is used for energy. It also prevents the liver from producing too much glucose.
What is insulin used to treat?
Insulin is commonly prescribed for:
- Type 1 diabetes (to replace the insulin the body cannot produce)
- Type 2 diabetes (when other medications are not enough to control blood sugar)
- Gestational diabetes (high blood sugar during pregnancy)
- Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) (a serious complication of diabetes)
Who can take insulin?
Insulin is suitable for people with diabetes who need blood sugar control, as determined by their doctor.
Who might not be able to take insulin?
Insulin may not be suitable if you:
- Have low blood sugar (hypoglycaemia)
- Have allergies to insulin or its ingredients
- Are unable to monitor blood sugar regularly
Can I take insulin if I’m pregnant or breastfeeding?
Yes, insulin is safe to use during pregnancy and breastfeeding for managing diabetes.
What if I miss a dose?
If you forget a dose, follow your doctor’s instructions on adjusting your next dose. Never take extra insulin without medical advice, as this can cause dangerously low blood sugar.
How effective is insulin?
Insulin is highly effective at controlling blood sugar levels when taken correctly, but dosing must be carefully monitored.
What should I do if I take too much?
Taking too much insulin can cause severe hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar), leading to confusion, dizziness, sweating, and even unconsciousness. If you experience severe symptoms, seek emergency medical help immediately.
What dose of insulin is usually taken?
The dose varies depending on the type of insulin and the individual’s needs. Your doctor will determine the correct dose based on your blood sugar levels.
What are the types of insulin?
Insulin is classified based on how quickly it works:
- Rapid-acting insulin: Works within minutes (e.g., NovoRapid, Humalog)
- Short-acting insulin: Works within 30 minutes (e.g., Actrapid)
- Intermediate-acting insulin: Lasts up to 16 hours (e.g., Insulatard)
- Long-acting insulin: Lasts up to 24 hours (e.g., Lantus, Levemir)
- Mixed insulin: A combination of short- and long-acting insulin
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What are the side effects of insulin?
Common side effects include:
- Low blood sugar (hypoglycaemia)
- Weight gain
- Skin reactions at the injection site
Serious side effects, such as severe hypoglycaemia or allergic reactions, require urgent medical attention.
How should I take insulin?
Insulin is injected under the skin (subcutaneously) using a syringe, insulin pen, or pump. Some types of insulin are given through an intravenous drip in hospital settings.
When should insulin be taken?
The timing depends on the type of insulin. Some are taken before meals, while others are taken once or twice daily.
What are the brand names for insulin?
Insulin is available under various brand names, including:
- NovoRapid
- Lantus
- Humalog
- Levemir
- Tresiba
Final thoughts
Insulin is an essential medication for diabetes management, but it must be taken exactly as prescribed. Monitor blood sugar regularly, follow your doctor’s advice, and seek medical help if you experience symptoms of low or high blood sugar.
