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Home Knowledge Center Wellness Library Insulin Degludec Pen Injector (INSULIN DEGLUDEC - INJECTION)

Insulin Degludec Pen Injector (INSULIN DEGLUDEC - INJECTION)

For diabetes.

Brand Name(s): Tresiba

Generic Name: Insulin Degludec

Instructions

Instructions

This medicine is used by injecting it into the skin. Please ask your doctor, nurse or pharmacist for the correct places on your body where this medicine can be injected.

This insulin should be used once a day. Use at the same time each day.

This insulin does not need to be mixed before using.

This insulin should be clear and colorless. Do not use if it appears discolored, thickened or contains any particles.

Protect medicine from light.

Store the insulin pen in the refrigerator until ready to use. Do not allow it to freeze.

Remove the insulin from the refrigerator when you are ready to use it.

Once opened, the medicine may be kept in the refrigerator or at room temperature.

Discard the injectable pen 56 days after first use, even if there is insulin left in the pen.

Throw away any insulin if it was frozen.

Never use any insulin that has expired. Throw it away.

Do not inject into red, swollen, itchy, lumpy, pitted, or thickened skin.

Change the location of the injection each time. Choose a location at least 1 inch from the last injection.

Do not rub or massage the area where the injection was given.

Drug interactions can change how medicines work or increase risk for side effects. Tell your health care providers about all medicines taken. Include prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal medicines. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist before starting or stopping any medicine.

Before using insulin, you should be taught by your doctor or a certified diabetes educator. Follow their instructions carefully. If you have not been trained, speak with your doctor before using this medicine.

Be sure to follow your regular meal plan and exercise as discussed with your doctor.

It is very important that you use your medicine every day and that you do not miss any dose of your insulin. Have a discussion with your doctor about what you should do in case you miss an insulin dose.

Keep all appointments for medical exams and tests while on this medicine.

Cautions

Cautions

Tell your doctor and pharmacist if you ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.

Monitor your blood sugar as instructed by your doctor.

Adjust the amount of insulin only as recommended by your doctor.

Your ability to stay alert or to react quickly may be impaired by this medicine. Do not drive or operate machinery until you know how this medicine will affect you.

Please check with your doctor before drinking alcohol while on this medicine.

Tell the doctor or pharmacist if you are pregnant, planning to be pregnant, or breastfeeding.

This medicine passes into breast milk. Ask your doctor before breastfeeding.

Always carry an ID card or wear a medical alert bracelet showing that you are diabetic.

Carry glucose tablets or hard candy with you in case you experience low blood sugar from the insulin.

Symptoms of low blood sugar may include nausea, shaking, sweating, cold skin, fast heartbeat, hunger, and irritability.

Ask your pharmacist how to properly throw away used needles or syringes.

Do not share this medicine with anyone who has not been prescribed this medicine.

Side Effects

Side Effects

The following is a list of some common side effects from this medicine. Please speak with your doctor about what you should do if you experience these or other side effects.

  • pain, redness, swelling near injection
  • weight gain

Call your doctor or get medical help right away if you notice any of these more serious side effects:

  • blurry vision
  • dizziness
  • numbness or tingling in hands and feet
  • low blood sugar
  • muscle cramps or weakness
  • rapid heartbeat
  • shakiness
  • blurring or changes of vision

A few people may have an allergic reaction to this medicine. Symptoms can include difficulty breathing, skin rash, itching, swelling, or severe dizziness. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical help quickly.

Please speak with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist if you have any questions about this medicine.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Ignite Healthwise, LLC, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.

Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Ignite Healthwise, LLC.

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