What is Insulin Degludec? Full information, usage, benefits and side effects

What is Insulin Degludec? Full information, usage, benefits and side effects

Information

Insulin degludec is an ultra-long-acting basal insulin analogue developed by Novo Nordisk under the trade name Tresiba. It is given as a subcutaneous injection once daily to control blood sugar levels in diabetic patients. Insulin degludec is a long-acting basal human insulin analogue used to improve glycemic control in diabetic patients. Insulin is a hormone that helps lower blood sugar levels.

Uses:

Insulin degludec is used to treat type 1 diabetes ( a condition in which the body does not produce insulin and cannot control the amount of sugar in the blood ). It is also used to treat people with he type 2 diabetes (a condition in which the body is unable to control the amount of sugar in the blood because it does not use insulin normally) who need insulin to control their diabetes. Insulin degludec should be used in combination with another type of insulin (short-acting insulin) in people with type 1 diabetes. Insulin degludec can be used in combination with another type of insulin or an oral antidiabetic drug in people with type 2 diabetes. 

 Type 1 diabetes 

Type 2 diabetes 

Dosage:

  • Inject insulin degludec subcutaneously in the thigh, upper arm, or abdomen.
  • Alternate injection site to reduce the risk of lipodystrophy and focal cutaneous amyloidosis.
  • Use U-100 vials for pediatric patients who require less than 5 units of insulin degludec per day.
  • For adults, inject subcutaneously once a day at any time.
  • In pediatric patients, inject subcutaneously once daily at the same time. Individualize dosage based on type of diabetes, metabolic requirements, blood glucose test results, and glycemic control goals.
  • The recommended number of days between dose increases is 3-4 days.
  • You should take insulin degludec at the same time each day. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully and ask your doctor or pharmacist to clarify any areas you do not understand. Use insulin degludec as directed. Do not use more or less, or use more often than directed by your doctor.

Side Effects:

Insulin degludec may cause side effects. If any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away, see your doctor.

  • Redness, swelling, pain, or itching at the injection site
  • Skin thickening (fat gain) or skin dimples (fat loss)
  • weight gain

Some side effects can be serious:

  • dizziness or lightheadedness
  • blurry vision
  • Anxiety, irritability, mood swings
  • Sweat
  • slurred
  • hunger
  • confusion
  • shiver
  • headache
  • fast heartbeat

Disclaimer:

Please consult your doctor/physician/specialist before taking any healthcare products. In case of allergic reaction to the medicines/substance, please take immediate medical help.

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