Types of Insulin
What is rapid-acting insulin?
Insulin that starts working within 15 minutes and peaks in 30–90 minutes.
What class is Glucophage?
Biguanide
What’s a common side effect of insulin?
Hypoglycemia
When should insulin glargine be given?
At the same time daily, usually once a day
When should you eat after taking rapid-acting insulin?
What’s an example of short-acting insulin?
Regular insulin (Humulin R or Novolin R).
What class is insulin lispro?
Rapid-acting insulin.
What does metformin commonly cause in the GI system?
Nausea, diarrhea, and abdominal discomfort.
What should be monitored with metformin?
Renal function (creatinine, BUN, eGFR).
What should you do if you miss a metformin dose?
Take it as soon as remembered unless it’s close to the next dose—then skip it.
What is the onset of NPH?
1 to 2 hours.
What drug class increases insulin sensitivity?
Thiazolidinediones (like pioglitazone) and biguanides.
What condition can insulin overdose cause?
Severe hypoglycemia.
When do you hold metformin?
Before and after contrast dye or if the patient has poor kidney function.
Can insulin be stored in a hot car?
No; it must be refrigerated or kept at room temperature.
Which insulin has no peak?
Long-acting insulin like insulin glargine (Lantus).
What’s the action of long-acting insulin?
Provides steady, continuous insulin with minimal peak.
Name a rare but serious side effect of Glucophage.
Lactic acidosis.
What labs are important to check before giving insulin?
Blood glucose levels and potassium.
What should you teach about alcohol and metformin?
Avoid excessive alcohol—it increases the risk of lactic acidosis.
What’s the difference between basal and bolus insulin?
Basal provides long-term coverage; bolus is for mealtime glucose control.
What type of drug is Humulin R?
Short-acting insulin
What signs would you see in hypoglycemia?
Shakiness, sweating, confusion, irritability, fast heartbeat.
What is important about rotating injection sites?
Prevents lipodystrophy (fat tissue damage) and improves absorption.
How do you treat mild hypoglycemia at home?
Eat 15g of fast-acting carbs (e.g., juice, glucose tabs), then recheck in 15 minutes.