Before you begin using a medication, be sure to inform your doctor of any medical conditions or Allergies you may have, any medications you are taking, whether you are pregnant or breast-feeding, and any other significant facts about your health. These factors may affect how you should use Humulin R (Insulin-human-regular).
Allergic reactions: If you notice signs of a serious allergic reaction (e.g., swelling of the face or throat, difficulty breathing, wheezing, or an itchy skin rash), stop taking the medication and seek immediate medical attention.
Appearance of insulin: The contents of the vial of regular insulin should be clear and colourless. Do not use Humulin R (Insulin-human-regular) if you notice anything unusual about its appearance, such as cloudiness, discoloration, or clumping.
Blood glucose monitoring: It is important for anyone using insulin to monitor their blood glucose levels regularly, as recommended by their doctor or diabetes educator. It is especially important to test blood glucose more often when your insulin dose or schedule changes, or when you are ill or under stress. If blood tests consistently show high or low blood glucose levels, contact your doctor or diabetes educator.
Changes at injection site: Fatty tissue under the skin at the injection site may shrink or thicken if you inject yourself too often at the same site. To help avoid this effect, change the site with each injection. Talk to your doctor or diabetes educator if you notice your skin pitting or thickening at the injection site.
Changes in insulin requirements: Many things can affect blood glucose levels and insulin requirements. These include:
- certain medical conditions (e.g., infections, Thyroid conditions, or kidney or liver disease)
- certain medications that increase or decrease blood glucose levels
- diet
- exercise
- illness
- injury
- stress
- surgery
- travelling over time zones
It is important your doctor knows your current health situation and any changes that may affect the amount of regular insulin you need. Blood glucose should be monitored regularly, as recommended by your doctor or diabetes educator.
Diabetes identification: It is important to either wear a bracelet (or necklace) or carry a card indicating you have diabetes and are taking insulin.
Family and friends: Educate your family and friends about the signs and symptoms of hypoglycemia (low blood glucose). Keep a Glucagon kit available and instruct them on its proper use in case you experience severe low blood glucose and you lose consciousness.
High blood glucose (hyperglycemia): Hyperglycemia can occur if not enough insulin is used or if you routinely forget to use your insulin. If this is not treated, it can result in diabetic ketoacidosis or coma, which can be fatal. Ability to concentrate and react, as well as vision changes, are affected by high levels of blood glucose. The first symptoms of hyperglycemia include an increased need to urinate, nausea, vomiting, drowsiness, excessive thirst, weight loss, loss of appetite, and an acetone or fruity odour to the breath. If you notice any of these symptoms, contact your doctor immediately.
Low blood glucose (hypoglycemia): Hypoglycemia may occur if too much insulin is used, if meals are missed, or if you exercise more than usual. Symptoms of mild to moderate hypoglycemia may occur suddenly and can include cold sweat, nervousness or shakiness, fast heartbeat, headache, hunger, confusion, lightheadedness, weakness, and numbness or tingling of the tongue, lips, or fingers. Mild to moderate hypoglycemia may be treated by eating foods or drinks that contain sugar. People taking insulin should always carry a quick source of sugar, such as hard candies, glucose tablets, juice, or regular soft drinks (not diet soft drinks).
Signs of severe hypoglycemia can include disorientation, loss of consciousness, and seizures. People who are unable to take sugar by mouth or who are unconscious may require an injection of glucagon or treatment with intravenous (into the vein) glucose.
Pregnancy: It is essential to maintain good blood glucose control throughout pregnancy. Insulin requirements usually decrease during the first trimester and increase during the second and third trimesters.
Breast-feeding: Breast-feeding mothers may require adjustments in their insulin dose or diet.
