Insulin: Key Facts and Mechanisms

Overview

• Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas.
• Also used as a medication for high blood glucose and potassium levels.
• Various types of insulin exist; this guide covers general facts applicable to all types.

Mechanisms and Clinical Uses

• Lowering Blood Glucose:
  • Insulin binds to cell receptors, activating glucose transporters.
  • This process decreases blood glucose levels by allowing glucose into cells.
• Treatment of Diabetes:
  • Type 1 Diabetes: Pancreas does not produce enough insulin; insulin is the primary treatment.
  • Type 2 Diabetes: Cells are less responsive to insulin; insulin is supplemental, alongside diet, exercise, and oral meds.
• Lowering Potassium Levels:
  • Insulin can treat hyperkalemia by lowering potassium levels.

Side Effects

• Lipo Hypertrophy:
  • Fat lumps form from repeated injections in the same spot.
  • Affects insulin absorption.
• Hypoglycemia:
  • Occurs when blood glucose levels drop too low.
  • Most likely at insulin peak times.
  • Severe cases treated with glucagon, especially if the patient loses consciousness.

Insulin Administration

• Rotating Injection Sites:
  • Prevents lipo hypertrophy.
  • Injection should be given in different locations each time.

Situations Requiring Increased Insulin Dosage

• Sickness:
  • Stress response increases blood glucose, requiring more insulin.
• Steroid Use:
  • Steroids increase blood glucose, necessitating larger insulin doses.
• Stress (Emotional/Physical):
  • Stress releases extra glucose; more insulin may be needed.

Recap

• Insulin is crucial for lowering blood glucose and is a primary treatment for diabetes.
• Can be used to lower potassium levels in hyperkalemia.
• Side effects include lipo hypertrophy and hypoglycemia.
• Insulin dosages need to be adjusted in cases of sickness, steroid use, and stress.

Additional Resources

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