Insulin Dos and Don’ts: Best Practices and Precautions for Using Insulin in Diabetes Management

Insulin controls blood sugar levels. Diabetics don’t have enough insulin or in some cases  the body does not know how to use it properly.

Over time, excessive blood sugar levels might cause serious health problems.

Insulin controls blood pressure in type 1 and 2 diabetics. The objective of diabetic treatment is to maintain a healthy blood sugar level.

If you’re new to insulin, here’s what you should do and what you don’t to keep your diabetes under control. 

Insulin Do’s 

1. Changing The Injection Location For Insulin

When you inject in the same spot every time, there is a risk of developing hard lumps and fat deposits. To avoid this, the injection should be administered at different locations within the site.

2. Take 15 to 30 Minutes Before A Meal

Consider taking insulin 15 to 30 minutes after a meal. This will help control blood sugar effectively. Do not wait too long after a meal to take insulin as it could pull down blood sugar drastically. 

3. Each Usage Requires A New Needle

After a while, the syringe and pen needles get dull. Each time you inject insulin, use a new needle because sharper needles induce less discomfort.

4. Use The Recommended Insulin Dosage

It is critical to use the correct dose of insulin. When extracting insulin from the syringe, the black plunger’s tip should be aligned with the number. To achieve the proper dosage while using a pen, rotate the dial.

5. Travel Smartly

Carry additional insulin syringes, needles, pens, and pump batteries with you when you travel.

Insulin Don’ts

1. Avoid Injecting At Specific Locations

Avoid injecting near the belly button, moles, or scars because the tissue there is hard, preventing proper insulin absorption.

2. Store In The Right Temperature

Don’t keep unopened insulin in a warm temperature. Keep it between 2 and 8 degrees Celsius in the refrigerator. However, don’t keep the opened vial in the refrigerator. Keep it at room temperature in a cool, dry location away from direct sunlight.

3. Avoid Using Expired Medicine

Do not use the insulin that is beyond its expiry date. You should discard a month-old insulin bottle.

4. Don’t Take Any Extra Insulin

Excessive insulin reduces blood sugar levels. Monitor your glucose levels throughout the day if you can’t remember whether you took your insulin dose or if you think you took a lower dose than your doctor recommended. Do not increase your insulin dose without consulting your doctor.

5. Avoid Injecting The Insulin Too Deeply

Inject insulin into the skin’s fat layer with a small needle. If you inject too deeply and penetrate your muscle, your body may absorb the insulin too quickly. Insulin may not last long, and the injection may be quite painful.

Insulin Precautions

Make sure you consult your diabetologist if you face the following post insulin shot.

• Allergic reaction
• Diarrhea
• Fever
• Any infection
• Fast heart rate
• Tingling in your hands, feet, lips and tongue
• Trouble concentrating 
• Blurry vision

NOTE: Inform your doctor if you are allergic to insulin. This product includes inactive chemicals that may cause allergies or other issues. Before using this medication, inform your doctor if you have any medical disorders, especially liver disease, renal disorder, or thyroid problems.

Don’t Have Time To Read?

• Insulin is used to control type 1 and 2 diabetes.
• Insulin should be taken 15 to 20 minutes before the meal. Every shot should be taken with a new needle.
• The dosage should be taken as recommended by the doctor.
• Insulin injection should be avoided near the belly button, moles, and scars.
• Check the temperature and expiry date of insulin.
• Consult your doctor if you are allergic to insulin.

Also Read: How to Increase Insulin Production in Pancreas

Common FAQs

1. Where Not To Inject Insulin?

Inject insulin away from the belly button, moles, and scars. It is because tissues are hard at these locations and prevent proper absorption of insulin.

2. What Should You Eat When Taking Insulin?

You can eat the following after taking insulin:

• High-protein foods
• Fatty fish
• Healthful fats
• Whole-grain foods
• Non-starchy vegetables

3. When To Inject Insulin?

Insulin shots work best when taken 30 minutes before a meal. If you are taking long-acting or intermediate insulin, inject it at the same time on a daily basis.

4. Is It Possible To Take Insulin Two Hours After A Meal?

The risk of hypoglycemia increases if you take it after a meal. Hence, it is advisable to take it not more than 30 minutes before the meal.

5. When Do Type 2 Diabetics Need Insulin?

When a food plan, weight reduction, exercise, and antidiabetic medicines fail to achieve the desired blood glucose levels (sugar), people with type 2 diabetes may need insulin.