Insulin Isophane
Information about Insulin Isophane
Insulin isophane uses
Insulin Isophane is used in the treatment of diabetes mellitus (Type 1 & Type 2).
How insulin isophane works
Insulin Isophane is an intermediate-acting insulin, that starts working in 1-2 hours after injection. It works similar to the insulin that is produced by the body. Insulin facilitates reuptake of sugar in muscle and fat cells and also suppresses the production of sugar in the liver. This helps to lower the blood sugar levels in diabetes mellitus.
Common side effects of insulin isophane
Hypoglycemia (low blood glucose level), Edema (swelling), Lipodystrophy (skin thickening or pits at the injection site), Diabetic retinopathy, Injection site reactions (pain, swelling, redness), Urticaria, Rash, Peripheral neuropathy (tingling and numbness of feet and hand), Refraction disorders, Anaphylactic reaction
Available Medicine for Insulin Isophane
Expert advice for Insulin Isophane
- Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar level) is a common side effect. Hence, regular monitoring of blood sugar levels is required while taking this medicine.
- Injection below the skin of the abdomen results in faster absorption than other injection sites.
- Injection sites must be rotated to prevent hard lumps from developing at one site.
- Opened vials/cartridge are good at room temperature for up to 4 weeks, while unopened vials must be placed in the refrigerator (2°C–8°C).
Frequently asked questions for Insulin Isophane
Insulin Isophane
Q. How does biphasic isophane insulin work?
Insulin isophane is a recombinant human insulin analogue (genetically modified insulin that is grown in a laboratory and similar to human insulin). It is an intermediate acting insulin preparation. Insulin isophane acts by replacing the normal production of insulin and by helping transfer sugar from the blood into other body tissues where it is utilized to generate energy. It also stops the liver from producing more sugar. Intermediate acting insulin preparations start acting within an hour or 2 of injection, and reach a period of peak activity that lasts up to 7 hours, following which the action trails off; overall duration of action ranges from 18 to 24 hours.
Q. What is Insulin Isophane? How is it made?
Insulin Isophane is a man-made version of human insulin, produced by the process of biotechnology called recombinant DNA technology. It is sold as a sterile, aqueous, clear, and colorless solution that contains insulin aspart along with other constituents like glycerin, phenol, metacresol, zinc, sodium chloride etc.
Q. Can Insulin Isophane cause hypoglycemia? How do I prevent it?
Yes. The most common side effect of Insulin Isophane is hypoglycemia. It happens more often if you miss or delay your food, drink alcohol, over-exercise or take other antidiabetic medicine along with it. So, don’t skip meals and be consistent in the timing and amount of your meals. Take some snacks as per your requirement if you over exercise. Regular monitoring of the blood sugar level is important. Always carry some glucose tablets, honey or fruit juice with you. Take all your medicines prescribed by the doctor on time and consult your doctor if you notice any fluctuations in your blood sugar levels.