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Check your perceptions about insulin. Read the questions below and find out whether they are myths or realities.
1. Having to take insulin means I have failed and that my diabetes is getting worse.
That’s a Myth!
Reality: Having to take insulin does not necessarily mean you've failed. Diabetes is a disease that gets harder to manage over time. Adding insulin replaces what your body isn't making naturally to help control blood sugar. If diet, exercise, and oral diabetes medications alone are not bringing your blood sugar levels under control, insulin may help. It may be an important tool in gaining blood sugar control.
2. Insulin is the last option to consider in diabetes treatment.
That’s a Myth!
Insulin does not mean that you are "at the end of the road." In fact, the American Diabetes Association treatment guidelines suggest you add insulin earlier if diet, exercise, and pills alone do not offer enough blood sugar control. Insulin does not have to be the last option.
3. Taking insulin is just one part of an overall treatment program to control my blood sugar.
That’s a Reality!
Reality: Insulin should be taken as part of an overall diabetes treatment plan, which includes diet, exercise, and other diabetes medications.
4. Taking insulin injections will be very painful.
That’s a Myth!
Reality: Many patients are surprised when they see how small and thin the needle is. In addition, insulin is injected into the fatty layer just under the skin, where there are fewer nerve endings.
5. Taking insulin shots means I can maintain my normal daily activities.
That’s a Reality!
Reality: Many insulins now come in compact, easy-to-use insulin pens. Pens like the LANTUS® SoloSTAR® pen help make taking insulin fit into an active lifestyle.
6. Insulin cures diabetes.
That’s a Myth!
Reality: Taking insulin may help manage blood sugar levels. But it does not cure the disease. While progress toward finding a cure has been substantial, there is still no cure for diabetes.
7. Taking insulin can cause a lot of weight gain.
That’s a Myth!
Reality: It is true that insulin causes the body to store calories from food, and patients may experience some weight gain. But following a healthy meal plan and exercising regularly can help people with diabetes from gaining a lot of weight.
8. Insulin does not always need to be refrigerated.
That’s a Reality!
Reality: Opened and unopened insulin can be stored at room temperature for up to 28 to 42 days, depending on the product. Refrigerated, unopened insulin is good until the expiration date printed on it. Always read the instructions that come with your insulin.
9. Insulin is dangerous.
That’s a Myth!
Reality: Like any medicine, insulin may have side effects such as low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), which can be serious. So ask your doctor how to take it. Proper use of insulin may help reduce the risk of side effects.
10. I will need to use a new insulin pen every time I inject.
That’s a Myth!
Reality: The LANTUS® SoloSTAR® pen contains 300 units of insulin and is good for
28 days once it is in use. You will not need a new insulin pen every time you inject with the LANTUS® SoloSTAR® pen.
Get the facts about insulin, how it works in your body, and the role insulin plays in an overall diabetes treatment plan.