Insulin degludec/insulin aspart

Insulin degludec/insulin aspart is a combination medication used to treat high blood sugar levels caused by type 1 and type 2 diabetes. It is a mixture of insulin degludec, a long-acting insulin, and insulin aspart, a rapid-acting insulin. This combination allows for better blood sugar control throughout the day and night.

Composition

Insulin degludec is a long-acting insulin analog that provides a steady level of insulin over a 24-hour period. It is designed to mimic the body's natural insulin release pattern. Insulin aspart is a rapid-acting insulin analog that begins to work quickly after injection to help manage blood sugar levels at meal times.

Usage

Insulin degludec/insulin aspart is used to improve blood sugar control in adults with diabetes mellitus. It is typically used in combination with a healthy diet and regular exercise. The medication is injected under the skin, usually once a day at the same time each day.

Side Effects

Possible side effects of insulin degludec/insulin aspart include low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), allergic reactions, injection site reactions, and weight gain. Severe, life-threatening allergic reactions are rare but can occur.

Precautions

Before starting insulin degludec/insulin aspart, patients should inform their healthcare provider about all their medical conditions, including if they have liver or kidney problems, are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed.

Pharmacology

Insulin degludec/insulin aspart works by replacing the insulin that is normally produced by the body and by helping move sugar from the blood into other body tissues where it is used for energy. It also stops the liver from producing more sugar.

File:Insulin degludec.jpg

Chemical structure of insulin degludec

File:Insulin aspart.jpg

Chemical structure of insulin aspart

See Also

• Insulin therapy
• Diabetes management