If you have Type 2 Diabetes, your doctor may have prescribed you various medications to control your blood sugar levels. You may also be told about a weekly injection. Albiglutide is one such injection. It is sometimes given in combination with other diabetes medications. So today, let's talk briefly about this medication, how it is used, what to watch out for, and its side effects.
Things you need to tell your doctor before taking this medicine
Before your doctor prescribes this medication, it is very important to know your complete health history. You should especially tell your doctor if you or anyone in your family has any of the following conditions:
| Situation you need to report | Description |
|---|---|
| History of thyroid cancer | If you or someone in your family has had thyroid cancer or a glandular cancer called MEN 2 (Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia type 2). |
| Pancreatitis | If you have ever had pancreatitis (a condition that causes severe stomach pain). |
| Kidney or liver disease | If you have any kidney or liver disease. |
| Stomach problems | If you have digestive problems or stomach function problems. |
| Allergies | If you have an allergy to albiglutide or any other medicine, food, or dye. |
| Pregnancy or breastfeeding | If you are pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or breastfeeding. |
How exactly is this vaccine used?
This is a subcutaneous injection. It is usually given once a week (every 7 days) . Your doctor or nurse will teach you how to give it. Follow the instructions exactly.
- Injection sites: This vaccine is given under the skin of your thigh, abdomen, or upper arm.
- Rotating the injection site: Very important! Rotate the injection site every week. Do not keep injecting in the same spot.
- Use with insulin: If you are an insulin user, you should inject Albiglutide and insulin separately . Never mix the two together. Also, do not inject the two injections together.
- Disposing of sharps: Never throw used sharps and syringes in the trash. Put them in a special sturdy container that you can dispose of. If you don't have one, ask your doctor about how to get one.
Never share your injection pen with anyone else. Even if you change the needle, doing so can spread dangerous viruses like Hepatitis and HIV.
What to do if you overdose?
If you have any suspicion that you have taken too much of this medicine, immediately call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital . Or go to the Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) of the nearest hospital. Do not delay.
What if I miss a dose of medication?
Sometimes we forget to take our medicine. If you miss a dose, don't worry.
- If you remember within 3 days of the missed dose, take it as soon as you remember. Then take the next dose as usual on the next day of the week.
- But if it's been more than 3 days since you missed a dose, don't take the missed dose. Skip it and take the next dose at the scheduled time.
- Never take a double dose. If in doubt, consult your doctor.
What other interactions may occur with this medicine?
Other medications, vitamins, and some foods you take can interact with this medicine and affect your blood sugar levels. So tell your doctor about all the medications you take.
Be careful! Some medications, for example beta-blockers for high blood pressure, can mask the symptoms of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) (such as shakiness, sweating). Therefore, it is very important to check your blood sugar levels regularly if you are taking these medications.
What are the possible side effects?
Like any medicine, this one can have side effects. Some are serious, some are common.
| Side effect | Description |
|---|---|
| Serious side effects that you should report to your doctor immediately | |
| An allergic reaction | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, difficulty breathing. |
| A lump or swelling in the neck | Difficulty swallowing, changes in voice (these can be symptoms of thyroid cancer). |
| Severe stomach ache | Severe stomach pain that doesn't go away and spreads to your back, with or without vomiting. (These could be signs of pancreatitis.) |
| Effects on the kidneys | Decreased urine output or difficulty urinating. |
| Low blood sugar (Hypoglycemia) | Tremors, sweating, extreme hunger, dizziness, rapid heartbeat, loss of consciousness. |
| Side effects that are usually not serious, but should be reported to the doctor if they persist | |
| Common side effects | Nausea, stomach upset, diarrhea, joint pain, redness or pain at the injection site, rash . |
What else should I pay attention to while taking this medicine?
- Regular check-ups: See your doctor regularly to check your progress.
- HbA1C test: Get a blood test called HbA1C regularly , which measures your average blood sugar levels over the past 2-3 months.
- Test your blood sugar: Learn how to test your blood sugar at home. Be aware of the symptoms of low and high blood sugar and how to manage them.
- Keep a source of sugar nearby: Always keep something nearby, such as glucose tablets, sugar cubes, or a piece of candy, in case your sugar levels drop.
- Don't skip meals: Eat regularly . Consult your doctor about alcohol consumption.
- Medical ID: It is very important to wear a medical ID card or bracelet that states that you have diabetes and the medications you are taking.
Take-Home Message
- Albiglutide is a once-weekly injection for type 2 diabetes. It is not a cure for diabetes, but a control medication.
- Before taking this medication, be sure to tell your doctor if you or anyone in your family has had conditions such as thyroid cancer or pancreatitis.
- Learn how to inject the vaccine correctly, change the site each time, and never share your pen with anyone else.
- Be aware of the symptoms of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia). Always keep something with sugar nearby.
- If you experience a serious side effect, such as a lump in your neck, severe stomach pain, or an allergic reaction, see your doctor immediately without delay.
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