Insulin Degludec

Dosage Forms Available

• Insulin Degludec is available as a clear, colourless solution for subcutaneous injection in various concentrations.

• The medicine is also supplied for single-patient-use in injectable pens for administering under the skin.

Age and Dose Restrictions

• Insulin Degludec is indicated for use in adults as well as children who are 1 year of age and older.

• It is used to manage high blood sugar levels in individuals with type 1 and type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Contraindications

• Insulin Degludec is contraindicated in patients who have a known hypersensitivity to this medicine or any of its components.

Other Medications to Avoid

• Insulin Degludec can interact with Thiazolidinediones (such as rosiglitazone, pioglitazone), other antidiabetic agents (like metformin, glyburide), ACE inhibitors (including lisinopril, enalapril), angiotensin II receptor blocking agents (such as losartan, valsartan), cholesterol-lowering medications (like fenofibrate, gemfibrozil), monoamine oxidase inhibitors (including selegiline, phenelzine), salicylates (such as aspirin), and sulfonamide antibiotics (such as trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole).

• It is essential to consult your doctor before starting any new prescription or over-the-counter medications.

Overdose and Missed Dose

• Overdose of Insulin Degludec can result in severe hypoglycemia which can lead to unconsciousness, seizures, or even death. In such instances, immediate medical attention is required.

• If you miss a dose of this medicine, administer it as soon as you remember. However, it should be injected at the same time each day and thus if your next scheduled dose is near, skip the missed dose.

Management of Side Effects

• Most side effects of Insulin Degludec are temporary and generally resolve when you stop using this medicine. However, if you observe any severe side effects or worsening of any symptoms, please consult your doctor.

• To manage injection site reactions such as pain or redness at the site of injection, rotate the injection sites within an injection area (upper arm, thigh, or abdomen) from one injection to the next.

• Experiencing low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) is a common side effect; always carry a quick source of sugar (like candy or fruit juice) with you in case you experience these symptoms.

Use in Driving and Operating Machinery

• Insulin Degludec is unlikely to affect your ability to drive or operate heavy machinery. However, since hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) can cause dizziness and confusion, avoid driving or using machinery if you experience these symptoms.

Use in Pregnancy and Lactation

• There are limited data on the use of Insulin Degludec in pregnant women or during lactation. Therefore, consult your doctor before using this medicine during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Caution in Other Conditions

• Insulin Degludec should be used with caution in patients with renal or hepatic impairment as insulin requirements may be reduced in these individuals. Close glucose monitoring is recommended in these conditions.

Special Dietary and Lifestyle Recommendations

• Maintaining a balanced diet that's low in sugar and high in fibre can help manage blood sugar levels.

• Regular monitoring of blood sugar levels is advisable to ensure the medicine is working effectively.

• Smoking and alcohol consumption can affect your blood sugar levels and should be avoided.

• Regular physical activity can help keep your blood sugar levels in check; try to get at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week.

• It's important to maintain a healthy weight, as being overweight can make it harder to manage your diabetes.