What is Insulin?

Insulin is a substance that plays a crucial role in the human body, regulating the blood sugar levels. It’s a hormone produced naturally by the pancreas and can also be supplied through injections or oral forms. In this article, we will explore the structure, function, usage, and considerations when using Insulin.

Structure and Function of Insulin

Insulin is a complex protein composed of two different peptide chains. Chain A consists of 21 amino acids and chain B consists of 30 amino acids. These two chains are linked together by disulfide bonds.

The primary function of insulin is to help the body regulate blood sugar levels. When you eat carbohydrates, sugar is absorbed into the blood, increasing blood sugar levels. The pancreas responds by producing insulin, which helps transport sugar into the body’s cells for use or storage. As sugar is removed from the blood, blood sugar levels decrease.

Role of Insulin in Metabolism

Insulin plays a vital role in the body’s metabolism. It helps convert sugar into energy, regulates blood sugar levels, and stores energy reserves as glycogen in the liver and muscles.

When blood sugar levels rise, insulin is produced to help the body utilize sugar and reduce blood sugar levels to normal. Without enough insulin, sugar cannot be converted into energy and will remain in the blood, causing high blood sugar levels.

Types of Insulin

There are various types of insulin used to treat diabetes. Each type has different absorption and activity rates, helping the body maintain stable blood sugar levels. Insulin types are typically categorized as follows:

• Rapid-acting insulin: absorbed quickly and takes effect within about 15 minutes after injection. Often used before meals to control blood sugar after eating.
• Short-acting or regular insulin: takes effect within about 30 minutes after injection and is typically used before meals.
• Intermediate-acting insulin: takes effect within about 2-4 hours and is usually used in the morning and evening.
• Long-acting insulin: has a longer duration of action, from 12-24 hours, and is used to control blood sugar throughout the day.

Methods of Insulin Injection

Insulin can be injected using insulin pens or syringes. You need to follow the correct dosage and administration method instructed by a doctor or pharmacist to ensure effectiveness and safety for your health.

Steps for insulin injection:

1. Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water.
2. Prepare the insulin pen or syringe, check the required dosage.
3. Choose an area of ​​skin on the body to inject insulin (thigh, abdomen, hip, or arm).
4. Clean the chosen area of ​​skin with a moist cotton ball to clean it.
5. Pinch the skin lightly with your thumb and forefinger, then inject insulin into the chosen area of ​​skin.
6. Keep the needle in place for about 10 seconds before removing it.
7. Gently massage the injected area of ​​skin.

Storage and Monitoring of Insulin

Insulin is a sensitive medication and needs to be stored properly to maintain effectiveness and safety. To store insulin, you need to follow these instructions:

• Store insulin in the refrigerator at 2-8 degrees Celsius.
• Do not let insulin freeze or get too hot (above 30 degrees Celsius).
• If the insulin has been opened, do not keep it for more than 28 days.
• Do not use expired or cloudy, discolored insulin or signs of contamination.
• Check the product before use and make sure there are no clumps or layers.

Additionally, you need to monitor the dosage of insulin used during the day and record it in a note to check later. This helps you and your doctor evaluate whether blood sugar levels are well controlled and adjust the appropriate insulin dosage.

Side Effects of Insulin

Like other medications, insulin can also cause some side effects. These side effects may include:

• Pain, swelling, or irritation at the injection site.
• High or low blood sugar.
• Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.
• Changes in mood, difficulty sleeping, or sleep disorders.
• Bruising, numbness, or pain at the injection site.

If you experience any side effects after using insulin, contact your doctor immediately for assistance and dosage adjustment.

Contraindications for Using Insulin

Insulin may not be suitable for some individuals such as:

• People allergic to insulin or other components in the medication.
• People with severe liver or kidney disease.
• Pregnant or breastfeeding women.

If you have any uncertain symptoms or need to use insulin in special cases, consult your doctor for dosage adjustment and appropriate usage.

Drug Interactions with Insulin

The use of insulin may interact with some other medications. If you are using any medications, inform your doctor to avoid drug interactions causing unwanted side effects. Some medications that may interact with insulin include:

• Pain relievers and fever reducers like aspirin, ibuprofen, or paracetamol.
• Antibiotics.
• Medications containing corticosteroids.
• Medications for heart disorders.
• Blood pressure-lowering medications.

Considerations When Using Insulin

• Ensure to follow the correct dosage and administration method instructed by a doctor or pharmacist.
• Monitor blood sugar levels regularly to adjust the appropriate insulin dosage.
• If experiencing shock due to high or low blood sugar, consume some sugar or drink sweetened water to restore the condition.
• Avoid overdosing insulin or injecting insulin into incorrect sites.
• Perform blood sugar checks and control blood sugar levels when you have any illnesses affecting the body.

Conclusion

Insulin is an essential hormone in the human body, playing a decisive role in regulating blood sugar levels. If you have diabetes or metabolism-related disorders, consult your doctor for advice and use insulin most effectively and safely. You also need to follow the correct dosage and monitor blood sugar levels regularly to control the condition and maintain good health.