What is Humalog?
Humalog refers to the brand name of insulin lispro that is used to control high levels of blood sugar in people with diabetes. Diabetes is a chronic condition where the pancreas cannot produce enough insulin or the body becomes resistant to insulin. Insulin is the hormone that helps glucose enter the muscle cells for energy. Without this natural hormone, glucose cannot enter the body cells, hence they stay in the bloodstream. If not treated, high blood sugar can lead to life threatening conditions. This is where this drug comes in. Humalog is a fast-acting insulin, meaning that when it is injected, it works very quickly to lower high levels of blood glucose. Although this medication is commonly used to treat people with diabetes mellitus, it can also be used to control high blood sugar in dogs with type 1 diabetes. Dogs with type 1 diabetes are not able to produce insulin because their beta cells have been destroyed by the immune system. As a result, dogs with type 1 diabetes require insulin injections to help them control their blood sugar levels.
Humalog for dogs
Dogs that are healthy produce insulin naturally, hence they are able to break down food they eat into energy. However, dogs with diabetes are not able to produce insulin, hence they experience high levels of blood glucose. Although there is no cure for type 1 diabetes in dogs, there is treatment that can help your dog live a long and healthy life. Diabetic dogs usually experience weight loss, dehydration, excessive urination, fatigue, and change in appetite. If you suspect that your dog has diabetes, it is important you take it to see a veterinarian. In case your dog is diagnosed with type 1 diabetes, a veterinarian may prescribe Humalog to help your dog regulate their blood sugar. Because the drug is a fast-acting insulin, it will begin to work within 15 minutes to control the level of blood sugar and peaks after about 1 hour. It will keep working in the dog’s body for about 2 to 4 hours. Unopened bottles of Humalog can be kept inside a refrigerator until the expiration date, or left at room temperature and used within 28 days.
How to administer this medication in dogs
If you have never injected your dog before, it can be scary to inject Humalog. However, it is important for pet owners to understand how to safely administer this medicine in diabetic dogs. Your veterinarian will show you how to inject it from home. To build your confidence, you can practice injecting an orange with water. It is important you use the right size syringe to inject Humalog. Before you inject the medication, slightly roll the bottle in your palms to mix it well. However, don’t shake the bottle. Your vet will show you the best places to inject this medication. You should rotate the area of injection.
