Potential Risks of Insulin Use
The administration of insulin (English: Insulin) may lead to several complications and side effects. The most significant of these effects include:
- A drop in blood sugar levels, potentially resulting in hypoglycemia.
- Potential weight gain, particularly when initiating insulin treatment.
- The development of lumps or scars at injection sites due to repeated use.
- Skin rashes at the injection site, and in rare cases, widespread rash across the body.
- Allergic reactions, which may lead to swelling, itching, or redness at the injection site.
- Feelings of anxiety or depression.
- Side effects associated with inhaled insulin, including coughing or sudden airway constriction, especially in patients with asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
- Hypokalemia, or low potassium levels in the body.
Guidelines for Insulin Use
Individuals should consider several important points and guidelines when using insulin. These include:
- Contraindications for insulin use include experiencing hypoglycemia or hypersensitivity to insulin or its components.
- It is crucial for patients to inform their healthcare provider about all medications they are currently taking, as some may interact with insulin and cause adverse effects. For example, using insulin alongside medications that lower potassium levels can increase the risk of hypokalemia.
- Psychological stress or certain illnesses, such as kidney or liver disorders, can alter the insulin requirements for an individual, necessitating adjustments in dosage to suit the body’s needs.
Types of Insulin
Pharmacies stock various types of insulin, and healthcare professionals will prescribe the most suitable type based on the patient’s condition. Below are key types of insulin:
- Rapid-acting insulin, which takes effect within 15 minutes and lasts for 3 to 5 hours.
- Short-acting insulin, which begins to act within 30 minutes to an hour and remains effective for 5 to 8 hours.
- Intermediate-acting insulin, which starts affecting blood sugar levels in 1 to 3 hours and lasts for 12 to 16 hours.
- Long-acting insulin, which begins to work within an hour and can last for 20 to 26 hours.
- Pre-mixed insulin, which is a combination of short-acting or rapid-acting insulin with long-acting insulin.