Insulin Degludec

This medicine can be used during pregnancy if your doctor recommends However, close monitoring of blood sugar levels is suggested as the dose requirements may change with each trimester of pregnancy.

You can use this while you are breastfeeding.

Insulin is known to cause low blood sugar levels and these can lead to impairment in your driving ability Always keep sugar or a bar of chocolate in your car with you while driving In case you experience any of the symptoms of low blood glucose levels like dizziness, drowsiness, visual disturbances and sweating, stop driving immediately and have sugar/ juice.

It is advisable not to consume alcohol when you are taking this medicine as it interferes with the way insulin works Consumption of alcohol may lead to an increased risk of both low blood glucose level and high blood glucose level Avoid excessive use of alcohol while taking insulin.

Insulin Degludec is a man-made, long-acting human insulin analog used to help control high blood sugar in adults and children aged 1 year and older with diabetes mellitus. It is a basal insulin that works over an extended period to provide a steady glucose-lowering effect.

Insulin Degludec is injected subcutaneously into the thigh, upper arm, or abdomen. You should rotate your injection sites within the same region to reduce the risk of skin problems like lipodystrophy. For adults, Insulin Degludec can be injected once daily at any time of day. If you miss a dose as an adult, you can inject it during waking hours upon discovering the missed dose, ensuring at least 8 hours have passed between consecutive injections. For pediatric patients, it should be injected once daily at the same time every day. Always check the insulin label before each injection to avoid medication errors.

The most common and serious side effect of Insulin Degludec, like other insulins, is low blood sugar (hypoglycemia). Severe hypoglycemia can be life-threatening. Other common side effects include allergic reactions, reactions at the injection site (like pain or swelling), skin thickening or pits at the injection site (lipodystrophy), itching, rash, swelling of hands and feet, and weight gain. Serious allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis, are rare but possible and require immediate medical attention.

No, Insulin Degludec should never be shared between patients, even if the needle is changed. Similarly, if using Insulin Degludec vials, needles or syringes should not be shared. Sharing poses a risk for the transmission of blood-borne pathogens.

Before first use, unopened Insulin Degludec pens or vials should be stored in the refrigerator at 36°F to 46°F (2°C to 8°C) in their original carton to protect from light. Do not freeze Insulin Degludec, and do not use it if it has been frozen. Once a pen or vial is in use, it can be stored in the refrigerator (36°F to 46°F / 2°C to 8°C) or kept at room temperature (up to 86°F / 30°C). An opened pen or vial should be discarded after 56 days, even if there is still insulin left and the expiration date has not passed. Keep Insulin Degludec away from direct heat or light.