As part of the arsenal of medications available to treat diabetes, NovoLog is a preparation of insulin aspart, a fast-acting form of insulin, which acts like the body’s own insulin to reduce glucose levels in the blood and convert to energy for use in the cells. It is injected under the skin with a needle and syringe or an insulin pump. It’s given to both adults and children who have type 1 diabetes (insulin dependent), and adults with type 2 diabetes, though it has not been tested in younger type 2 diabetics, or type 1 diabetic children under the age of 2. Since it is fast-acting, it must be taken 5-10 minutes before a meal, or there’s a risk of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). It is sometimes prescribed in combination with slower-acting insulin.
What are the NovoLog Side Effects and Contraindications?
An allergic reaction to insulin may cause an itchy skin rash, wheezing and difficulty in breathing, sweating, a fast heart rate, or lightheadedness. More serious side effects may include swelling in the hands or feet, or symptoms of potassium deficiency – increased thirst and urination, dry mouth, muscle weakness, leg discomfort, abnormal heart rate, or confusion. The most common side effect of diabetes NovoLog insulin is hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). Hunger, dizziness, confusion, and weakness are a few of the symptoms, which can be helped by eating something. These are only some of NovoLog’s possible side effects; ask your doctor for more information. Many drugs can lower or raise blood sugar, and therefore, when taken with diabetes NovoLog insulin, will cause unpredictable changes in the body. Before using this drug, give your doctor a list of all medications you use, and include any vitamins, minerals, and herbs. People who are sensitive to insulin or who are having a hypoglycemic attack should not take NovoLog, and women who are pregnant or are breastfeeding should first discuss the risks with their doctor. People with low potassium levels should also not take the diabetes NovoLog treatment.
Learn Your Options: NovoLog Alternatives
There are several different kinds of insulin that can be used. Some are fast acting with a quick absorption like diabetes NovoLog (e.g. Humalog); others stay in the body longer (e.g. Humulin NPH, Levemir, Lantus). But whatever insulin or other diabetes medication is prescribed, it is always said that they are meant to be used along with healthy lifestyle choices like a sensible diet, cessation of smoking and alcohol consumption, and daily exercise, as a complete treatment plan to control blood sugar and cholesterol levels. In fact, many people who have been successful in cutting out harmful fats and sugars have been able to cut down or stop their medications completely. A sound diet consists of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, beans, good oils and healthy fats (olive and omega-3 oils, nuts). Drinking ample water during the day (approximately 8 glasses) is also widely recognized as a key ingredient for a long and healthy life.
