Insulin T300 26-27

Insulin

Humulin, Various Analogs

Insulin Drug Class

Insulin

Insulin Dosage Forms

Injection Solution: 100 units/mL, 500 units/mL;

Pen and Refills (Administration Device), Product Dependent: 100 units/mL, 200 units/mL, 300 units/mL;

Powder for Inhalation: 4 units, 8 units, 12 units

Insulin Dosing By Indication

1. Diabetes mellitus, Types 1 and 2: Subcutaneous dosing is individualized to patient needs

Insulin Off Label Uses

None

Insulin MOA

This drug promotes cellular uptake of glucose, fatty acids, and amino acids, and their conversion to glycogen, triglycerides, and proteins.

Insulin Common Adverse Effects

Injection site reactions, weight gain

Insulin Efficacy Monitoring Parameters

Preprandial blood glucose between 80 and 130 mg/dL, HbA_1c <7%.

Insulin Safety Monitoring Parameters

Symptoms of hypoglycemia include nausea, sweating, tremor, and loss of consciousness.

Insulin Key Counseling Points

Refer to specific product labeling for administration details. Monitor blood glucose in frequent intervals (2-4 times/d); if <70 mg/dL, eat non–sugar-free candy, glucose tablets, or drink a glass of juice and contact prescriber. Store unopened vials in refrigerator. Keep open vials at room temperature if it is painful to inject cold insulin. Dispose needles in sharps container. Do not share needles (risk of transmission of infectious diseases). Rotate injection sites.

Insulin Clinical Pearls

Beef and pork insulins are extracted and purified from the animal’s pancreas. Human insulin is produced by recombinant DNA technology or enzymatic conversion of pork insulin. No differences in side effects or long-term control of diabetes have been observed between human insulin and highly purified pork insulin. Use caution when dispensing 500 units/mL insulin solution; can result in accidental overdose of insulin and fatal hypoglycemia, and is only indicated if the total insulin requirement exceeds 200 units/d. Inhaled insulin is rapid acting; dose conversion from injectable insulin must be done under careful supervision. Insulin requirements may change during periods of stress or illness, or with increased activity; monitor and adjust. Following subcutaneous administration, insulin glargine forms a micro-precipitate in the fatty tissue from which small amounts of insulin are released slowly, resulting in a relatively constant concentration/time profile over 24 h with no pronounced peak.