Do you use Insulin Glargine for diabetes? Let's talk about this simply.

Are you taking insulin to control your diabetes? If so, your doctor may have prescribed you an injection called Insulin Glargine. The name may sound a bit complicated, but don't worry. Today, we'll talk about this medication, how it works, how to use it properly, and what you need to be aware of in a very simple and understandable way.

Simply put, what is Insulin Glargine?

Insulin glargine is a special type of insulin used to treat diabetes. It works in the same way as the insulin hormone in our bodies. What makes it special is that it is a "long-acting" insulin . This means that after you inject it, it doesn't work all at once. Instead, it releases insulin slowly and at the same rate over a period of about 24 hours. Just like our pancreas naturally releases small amounts of insulin throughout the day. This is also called basal insulin .

The main benefit of this is that it helps to control your blood sugar levels (blood glucose) throughout the day. Usually, the doctor will advise you to change your diet and exercise along with this medicine. It is when you do all of these things together that you can get the best results.

The most important things to tell your doctor before starting this medication are:

Before you start taking insulin glargine, it is very important to tell your doctor a complete description of your health condition, as this information will determine the dosage and instructions you will be given.

If you have any of the conditions below, be sure to inform your doctor about it.

How exactly do I use this medicine?

The most important thing is to inject insulin correctly. Your doctor or nurse will show you how to do this. Follow those instructions exactly.

Step 1: Checking the insulin

Always look at the insulin vial before injecting it. Insulin glargine is a clear, colorless liquid, like water . Never use it if it is cloudy, cloudy, or has changed color. Also, always look at the name and expiration date on the vial.

Step 2: Choosing a vaccination site

This vaccine is given into the subcutaneous tissue, the fatty layer under the skin. The best places for it are:

• The area around the belly button (about 2 inches below the belly button)
• Upper back of the arm
• Upper and lateral parts of the thigh

Important: Do not inject into areas that are injured, bruised, swollen, lumpy, or have thickened skin.

Step 3: Site Rotation

This is very important. Don't inject in the same place every day . If you do, the fat layer under the skin can thicken and form lumps. This is called `(Lipodystrophy)`. If this happens, the insulin injected in that place will not be absorbed properly. So, keep a small notebook and mark the places you have injected in. For example, if you injected in the right side of the stomach this week, inject in the left side the next day. Then move to the thigh. Even if it's the same area, inject about an inch away from where you injected the previous day.

Step 4: Disposing of used needles and syringes

Never throw used needles and syringes in the trash. They can be dangerous to others. There are special plastic containers (`sharps containers`) for these. Ask your doctor how you can get one.

This medicine is sometimes given to children over 6 years of age, but this is decided by a pediatrician.

What to do if you miss a dose of medication?

If you forget to take your insulin injection at the scheduled time, don't panic. Remember, never take a double dose to make up for a missed dose. Doing so can cause your blood sugar to drop too low, which can be dangerous. If you miss a dose, call your doctor for advice. He or she will tell you what to do next.

Things to be careful about when taking this medicine

When taking insulin treatment, you also need to be very careful about your lifestyle.

• Check your blood sugar levels regularly: Use a home blood sugar meter and check your blood sugar levels regularly as directed by your doctor. Keep a record of your blood sugar levels.
• Be aware of hypoglycemia: This is when blood sugar levels drop too low. This is the most dangerous condition that can occur for someone taking insulin.Symptoms include sweating , shaking, extreme hunger, rapid heartbeat, anxiety, dizziness, and confusion.
• Always keep something sweet with you: Always keep something sweet with you, such as a glucose toffee, a sugar packet, a sugary drink, or some fruit juice, to eat as soon as you feel symptoms of low blood sugar. If you lose consciousness due to low blood sugar, do not put anything in your mouth. Go to the hospital immediately.
• Be aware of hyperglycemia: This is high blood sugar levels. Symptoms include excessive thirst, frequent urination, extreme fatigue, and blurred vision . Tell your doctor if you have any of these symptoms.
• Be careful on sick days: When you have an illness like a fever, cold, or diarrhea, your blood sugar levels can rise due to hormonal changes in your body. Ask your doctor if you need to adjust your insulin dosage on such days.
• Don't skip meals: If you take insulin and skip a meal, your blood sugar can get too low. Eat meals at the right time.
• Wear a medical ID: Always carry a bracelet or card that says you take insulin for diabetes. It could save your life in an emergency.
• HbA1C test: Your doctor will ask you to take a blood test called ``(HbA1C)`` about once every 3 months. This can help you see how your average blood sugar control has been over the past 2-3 months.

Can there be problems with other medications? (Interactions)

Yes, some medications can interact with insulin and affect your blood sugar levels. Some medications raise your blood sugar levels, while others lower them. Also, there are some medications that suppress the symptoms of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia). So you may not feel like you have low blood sugar.

Therefore, tell your doctor about any other medications you are taking (including vitamins, traditional medicines, and supplements) .

Are there any side effects?

Like any medicine, insulin glargine can cause side effects in some people. Most of the time, these are not serious, but there are some things we should be aware of.

How to store medicine properly?

Insulin is a medicine that spoils quickly if not stored properly.

• Unopened bottles: Store these in the fridge door. Never store in the freezer. Do not use insulin if it is frozen.
• Opened/In-use bottles: You can store your currently used bottle at room temperature (below 30 degrees Celsius). But you must use it within 28 days. If there is any left over after 28 days, throw it away.
• Protect from direct sunlight and excessive heat.

I hope these tips are helpful to you. Remember, diabetes is a condition that needs to be managed properly. The most important thing is to follow your doctor's instructions exactly and to talk to him about any questions or concerns you have.