Sites
of insulin injection
The sites where the injections can be given are shown in Fig 8.
These include the abdomen, outer upper arms, the thighs, the buttocks,
and hip areas. Do not inject insulin in bony areas or near any
of your joints. Efforts must be made to rotate the site of the
injection throughout the permissible areas and not inject only
into one region.
Fig 8: Sites of insulin Injections
Complications of Insulin Therapy
-
Hypoglycemia (Low blood sugar):
This is a major side effect and the patient
should be educated about it before initiation of insulin and
he should be taught about the emergency measures to be taken
in such a condition.
-
Resistance: The
impurities present in the older insulins gave rise to antibodies,
which interfere with normal insulin action. However, newer insulins
are purer and the chances of insulin resistance minimal.
- Edema: Insulin
has salt retaining properties and may cause fluid retention
in some patients.
- Lipodystrophy (Abnormal fat accumulation):
This may present as lipoatrophy (decreased fat) or lipohypertrophy
(increased fat). Lipoatrophy was seen with the use of older
insulins and it is rare with the newer insulins. Lipohypertrophy
can be seen with the use of any insulin. The best way to avoid
this condition is to frequently change the site of injections.
-
Local or systemic hypersensitivity reactions
Caution
Never be in haste. Always start with a low dose, go slow. There
is no rush to achieve adequate control since this may take several
weeks. Start with 8-10 units twice daily. Increase by 2-4 units
every 2-3 days according to capillary blood glucose values and
your physical condition.
You
should always consult your physician about any healthcare questions
you may have, especially before trying a new medication, diet,
fitness program, or approach to health care issues.
Last
updated on 13-12-2002
