Insulin Use and Monitoring Diabetic Patients

What are the types of insulin

Short acting insulin

Intermediate or long-acting insulin

“Peakless” insulin

What is short acting insulin also known as

Humulin R or Regular insulin

When do we use short acting insulin

For DKA case bc it has an immediate control of blood glucose due to its rapid effect

What are types of intermediate acting insulin and what is is it it used for

Humulin N

Used for maintenance control

What is peakless insulin and what is used for

Glargine (Lantus)

Recommended and used for cats

What is nadir?

The lowest point blood glucose that reaches after insulin before it starts to climb

How do we perform a glucose curve?

Check blood glucose in the morning prior to feeding and giving insulin

After feeding and giving insulin, check blood glucose every 1-2 hrs for 12 hrs

What is frucotasmine used for

Represents an average blood glucose over the last 2 weeks and is a measure of protein-bound glucose during this period

Why do we use fructosamine to check blood glucose levels

Stress can release catecholamines especially in nervous or stressed pts when taking a blood sample

This can lead to false less elevated blood glucose levels

Fructoasmine levels can provide a better indication of long-term glycemic control in anxious pets

How do we handle insulin

Refrigerated and gently rolled between fingertips before administration

NEVER shake it unless it’s Vetsulin

Which brands require U-40 syringes

PZI, Vetsulin/Caninsulin

Where should we give insulin

Typically SQ

Can be given IV infusion or IM in dehydrated or critical patients

Symptoms of hypoglycemia (if we give too much insulin)

Vomit, ataxia, weakness, tremors, dazed mentation, seizures or death

What should you tell owners of diabetic pts if they notice signs of hypoglycemia

Give their pets Karo syrup or Dextrose and seek immediate vet care

Which condition is more dangerous between hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia

Hypoglycemia is more dangerous - never re-dose insulin if you think it didn’t get administrated properly, best to wait until the next time you’re supposed to give insulin