Insulin Flashcards
Synthesized in the pancreas
Insulin
Precursor of insulin
Proinsulin
Byproduct of insulin
C-peptide
Secretion is stimulated mainly by glucose.
Other stimulants = epinephrine, fatty acids, amino acids, ketone bodies
Insulin
Promotes conservation of energy & increases cellular uptake of glucose, amino acids, & K+
Insulin
Insulin is measured in…
“units” rather than “mg” or “mcg”
In the United States, 2 concentrations are available
U-100 which has 100 units per ml
U-500 which has 500 units per ml
U-500 is available in only one product
Humulin R
8 units of insulin =
0.08 ml
50 units of insulin =
0.5 ml
Unopened vial stored in
refrigerator
Discard after
expiration date marked on vial
Avoid
freezing or heat
prolonged, direct sunlight
For cloudy insulins
roll vial in hands gently to mix; do not shake vigorously
Open vials:
Can be stored at room temperature
Levamir = 42 days, Lantus =28 days
SC injections in
upper arms, thighs, and abdomen
Rotate injection sites
Needless syringe that uses air to inject into skin
Jet injectors
Pre-filled device with disposable needle
Pen injectors
computerized device delivers a basal rate with
mealtime boluses by pressing a button
Portable Insulin Pump
for emergency blood glucose reduction in hospital setting
Continuous insulin infusion
Ultra Short / Fast Acting Insulin
Lispro Insulin (Humalog) Aspart Insulin (Novolog) Glulisine Insulin (Apidra)
Short / Fast Acting Insulin
Regular Insulin
(Humulin R)
(Novolin R)
Intermediate Acting Insulin
NPH [Isophane] Insulin
(Humulin N)
(Novolin N)
Long /Slow Acting Insulin
Insulin Detemir (Levemir) Glargine insulin (Lantus)
Premixed Insulin Mixtures
NPH/Regular Mixture
(Humulin 70/30 & Novolin 70/30)
NPH / Regular Mixture (Humulin 50/50)
NPL / Aspart (Novolog Mix 70/30)
NPL / Lispro (Humalog Mix 75/25)
