When we think of diabetes, most of us think of insulin injections. For some, injecting themselves with a needle every day is a bit difficult and annoying. But now, you will be surprised to know that there is a new solution for this, a method that can be used without needles. That is, an insulin powder that is inhaled by mouth. Let's talk about this in a little more detail today.
What is this oral insulin?
Simply put, this is insulin. But instead of being given as an injection, it comes as a very fine powder. It is inhaled through the mouth using a special inhaler. The insulin powder is then absorbed into the body quickly through the lungs. This is called rapid-acting insulin . This means that when you use it, it starts to control blood sugar levels quickly.
This medication is usually prescribed by your doctor in conjunction with changes in your diet and exercise. Although this is a new and easy way to control diabetes, it is not suitable for everyone. Therefore, it is very important to know exactly what this is.
Things you need to tell your doctor before taking this medicine
Before you begin this treatment, it is essential that you give your doctor a complete description of your health condition. In particular, you should definitely tell them about the following:
| Your health condition or habit | Why is that important? |
|---|---|
| If you are a smoker or have recently quit. | This medicine is not recommended for smokers and lung patients. It can affect the lungs. |
| If you have a lung disease such as asthma or COPD. | Because it works through the lungs, it can cause breathing difficulties in people who already have lung disease. |
| If you frequently have low blood sugar (hypoglycemia). | Because this medication also lowers blood sugar levels, the risk may increase for someone who already has low blood sugar. |
| If you have kidney or liver disease. | Since these organs help remove medication from the body, if their function is impaired, the dosage of the medication may need to be changed. |
| If you are pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or breastfeeding. | In these cases, you should talk to your doctor about the effects of the medication and make a decision. |
| If you have an allergic reaction to insulin or other medicines, foods, or dyes. | This is very important to avoid possible allergic reactions. |
How exactly do you use this medicine?
The way this is used is a little different than a regular inhaler, so it is very important to follow the instructions given by your doctor or healthcare team exactly.
- You should use this right after you start your main meal .
- Your doctor will teach you how to use this inhaler, how to adjust your dose, and how to change your dose when you are sick or exercising.
- Never use more or less than the amount prescribed by your doctor.
- Read the instruction leaflet that comes with this medicine carefully. If you have any questions, ask your doctor.
The most important thing is that this medicine is for you only. Do not share your inhaler or insulin powder with anyone else for any reason.
What if I miss a medication appointment?
It's important not to skip your medication. But your doctor will probably give you a plan for what to do if you do. Follow that plan. Never take two doses at once to make up for a missed dose.
What if I take too much medicine?
If you think you have taken too much 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. This may be an emergency.
Things to be careful about when taking this medicine
You should always pay attention to your health while undergoing this treatment.
- See your doctor regularly: Go to the clinic on scheduled dates to check the progress of your treatment.
- HbA1C test: This is a simple blood test. It can tell you how well your blood sugar has been controlled over the past 2-3 months. Your doctor will likely recommend that you have this test done every 3-6 months.
- Learn to test your blood sugar: Learn how to test your blood sugar at home. Know the symptoms of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) and high blood sugar (hyperglycemia) and how to manage them.
- If your blood sugar is low: If you feel shaky, sweaty, or dizzy, these could be signs of low blood sugar. Always keep something like glucose tablets, a sugar cube, or a sweet toffee nearby for when you need it.
- Emergency: If you have low blood sugar and are having a seizure or losing consciousness, do not put anything in your mouth. It could cause choking. Make others aware of this. You should be taken to a hospital immediately.
- Don't skip meals. Ask your doctor about alcohol. Some cough and cold medicines may contain sugar or alcohol. These can affect your blood sugar.
What are the possible side effects?
Like any medicine, this one can cause some side effects. Some of them are serious, some of them are common.
| Serious side effects that you should report to your doctor immediately | |
|---|---|
| Allergic reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat. |
| Difficulty breathing | Difficulty breathing or wheezing after using the medicine. |
| Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) | Tremors, excessive sweating, restlessness, dizziness, fainting, rapid heartbeat. |
| Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) | Excessive thirst, frequent urination, dry mouth, fruity breath odor, difficulty breathing, stomach ache, nausea. |
| Decreased potassium levels | Muscle pain or cramps, unusual weakness, irregular heartbeat. |
| Things that are usually not serious, but should be reported to the doctor if they persist | |
| Cough | It may occur when you first start using the medicine. |
| Sore throat | There may be slight discomfort or soreness in the throat. |
Take-Home Message
- Oral insulin is a needle-free, fast-acting treatment for diabetes. But it should be used only as directed by your doctor.
- You should tell your doctor about all other medications you take, all your medical conditions, especially lung diseases (such as asthma) and smoking.
- Be aware of the symptoms of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia). Always keep something like a sugar cube or toffee nearby for such times.
- If you experience difficulty breathing, skin rash, or other serious side effects after taking this medicine, seek medical advice immediately.
- This is a medicine prescribed for you only. Do not share your inhaler or insulin powder with anyone else.
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