Insulin
Replaces or supplements the hormone the body uses to move glucose into cells.
Why it gets prescribed
Essential in type 1 diabetes, and used in type 2 when needed. Needing insulin is not a sign that you did something wrong.
What to watch for
Blood glucose per your own plan, and knowing the signs of a low. Check injection sites to avoid lumps.
Stopping — read this before you stop anything
In type 1 diabetes, stopping insulin can be life-threatening within hours — including when ill and not eating. Ask for your sick-day rules BEFORE you are ill.
Tell the prescriber and the pharmacist
Plan for flights (insulin in hand luggage, in its labelled box), for time zone changes, and for illness.
Worth asking
- What are my sick-day rules
- How do I adjust for a flight and a time zone change
- How do I store insulin when travelling