One of the common insulin treatments of Type 1 Diabetes is Tresiba, commonly purchased under its generic name, Insulin Degludec. What is Tresiba? What are its uses and dosage? And lastly, what are the adverse reactions associated with this treatment?
Tresiba is an FDA-approved diabetes medication for treating and managing blood sugar levels. It is suitable for adults and children who are one year and above. It is available in two strength, 200 units/mL and 100 units/mL. This medication is administered through subcutaneous injection (into the skin), with a syringe or prefilled pen.
Uses of Tresiba
Tresiba is a long-acting type of insulin that starts working 2 hours after injection and lasts 24 hours. It improves glycemic control in type 1 and type 2 diabetes patients. It works by lowering blood glucose levels and preventing frequent hyperglycemic attacks.
This medication functions efficiently when used with a proper diet and regular exercise. Lifestyle also plays a vital role in diabetes management, which means that the food you eat, and your daily routine will impact your Tresiba treatment.
Consistent use of Tresiba prevents the development of diabetes complications, such as nerve damage, blindness, sexual dysfunction, and kidney damage. It can also reduce your risk of cardiovascular disease, a complication that is very common in diabetes patients.
Precautions and Warnings
Do not take Tresiba if you are allergic to it or any of its ingredients. Additionally, opt for another insulin treatment if you have frequent hypoglycemic episodes. Remember that Tresiba lowers blood glucose, so using it can worsen your hypoglycemia.
If you are using Tresiba FlexTouch, avoid sharing it with others. Sharing needles or syringes with others can put you at risk of serious infections. To ensure that this injectable medication is safe to use, tell your healthcare professional if you have a history of any of the following conditions:
- Kidney disease
- Liver disease
- Hypoglycemia
- Cardiovascular disease
While on your treatment with Tresiba, you may experience blurred vision, irritability, dizziness, confusion, and increased hunger. These are all symptoms of hypoglycemia. Take immediate action by eating sugar-rich foods like candies and raisins. You can also opt for sugar beverages like fruit juices and sodas. However, if your hypoglycemia worsens, administer a glucagon injection at once. A glucagon injection kit is often prescribed with your diabetes treatment. Ask your doctor for one for emergency purposes.
Dosage
The recommended doses for Tresiba are as follows:
For type 1 diabetes patients:
- Inject one dose of Tresiba once each day.
- The starting dose is one-half to one-third of the total daily insulin dosage.
For type 2 diabetes patients:
- Inject one dose of Tresiba once each day.
- The starting dose is 10 units once daily.
How to take it?
Use Tresiba exactly as your doctor has instructed you. Follow all the directions provided on the prescription label.
Administer the shots under the skin, usually once daily. When using this medicine daily, change your injection sites to avoid thickened skin or lumps. You can inject Tresiba under the thighs, upper arm, and abdomen.
Side effects
Common side effects:
- Low blood sugar
- Skin rashes
- Thickened skin
- Swelling
- Weight gain
- Pain at the injection site
Severe side effects:
- Lightheadedness
- Sweating
- Blurred vision
- Shakiness
- Dizziness
- Fast heartbeat
- Anxiety
- Mood changes
- Hunger
- Slurred speech
- Headache
- Irritability
Doctor’s Recommendation
Contact your healthcare professional immediately if you experience any of the following symptoms:
- Severe hypoglycemia (dangerously low blood sugar): If untreated, it can cause unconsciousness, seizures, and even death.
- Severe allergic reactions.
- Dangerously low potassium levels.
