Insulin

Question 1

What are some examples of types of insulin

Answer 1

insulin
aspart/glargine
soluble insulin
biphasic insulin

Question 2

What are some common indications for use

Answer 2

• Insulin replacement in type 1 DM
• Control of blood glucose in DMT2 - oral hypoglycaemia Tx inadequate
• IV in diabetic emergency (DKA, hyperglycaemia, hyperosmolar syndrome, perioperative glycaemic control
• Alongside glucose to Tx hyperkalaemia

Question 3

What is the mechanism of action

Answer 3

• Functions similarly to endogenous insulin
• stimulates glucose uptake from circulation into tissues (sk muscle + fat)
• increase use of glucose as energy source
• Insulin stimulates glycogen, lipid + protein synthesis + inhibits gluconeogenesis

Question 4

What are the side effects

Answer 4

• Hypoglycaemia (coma + death)

- Lipohypertrophy when repeated injection site used

Question 5

What are the contra-indications

Answer 5

• Renal impairment (pts have increased risk of hypoglycaemia due to decreased insulin clearance)

Question 6

What are the interactions

Answer 6

• Systemic corticosteroids increase insulin requirement

- Not used with other hypoglycaemic agents