This medication is typically used to increase blood sugar levels. Its effects can be felt within a few minutes.
This medication must be easily accessible at any time.
This product must be used according to the instructions provided by your pharmacist. For more information, read the instructions in the package carefully.
The contents in the vial must be reconstituted according to the manufacturer's recommendations before the dose may be administered.
Generally, this medication is used only as needed. Insulin users should be aware of the symptoms of low blood sugar, which include confusion, headache, hunger, mood changes, palpitations, rapid breathing, cold sweats and shakiness. These symptoms require immediate treatment, to bring your blood sugar back up to a safe level. This can be done with a quick source of sugar, such as: - 4 or 5 glucose tablets
- 59 to 79 mL of liquid glucose
- 15 to 20 mL (3 or 4 teaspoons) of honey, maple syrup or corn syrup
- 5 to 7 LifeSavers type candies
- 175 to 250 mL (¾ to 1 cup) of fruit juice or regular soft drink (not a diet soft drink)
- 4 or 5 packets of white sugar diluted in water
Inform your health care professional if these symptoms have occurred, as it may mean that your diet and/or medication needs to be adjusted.
Insulin users must check their blood sugar levels regularly using an appropriate device.
Dispose of used syringes and needles safely. Your pharmacist can tell you the best way to do this.
In addition to its desired action, this medication may cause some side effects, notably:
Each person may react differently to a treatment. If you think this medication may be causing side effects (including those described here, or others), talk to your health care professional. He or she can help you to determine whether or not the medication is the source of the problem.
Keep this product in the refrigerator. The unused portion of this medication must be discarded.
When meeting with any health professional, it is important for you to share the following information:
It is also strongly recommended that you keep an up-to-date list of all the medications you take and carry it with you at all times. This could be useful if you have to see a health professional or need emergency care.
Keep all your medications out of the reach of children and pets and return any unused or expired medications to the pharmacy for proper disposal.