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What is the most important information I should know about Vetsulin: Diabetes
mellitus is a disease where the body produces insufficient insulin. The low insulin levels may
result in high blood glucose that could produce the following changes in a dog; increased
thirst, urination and appetite; weight loss; high levels of glucose in the urine, ketones in
the urine, cloudy eyes and vision loss (diabetic cataracts). Vetsulin is not a cure for
diabetes mellitus, it can control the levels of glucose in the blood to help alleviate the
clinical signs. Follow any diet or exercise plan developed by your Veterinarian.
What is Vetsulin: Insulin is a hormone naturally produced by the
pancreas. Insulin enables the body to use the sugar in food as a source of energy. When the
body does not produce enough insulin, or when the insulin produced by the body is not effective
enough, this condition is called diabetes mellitus. This condition allows sugar levels in the
body to become very high. Vetsulin is an aqueous suspension of porcine (pork) insulin that is
used to control hyperglycemia in dogs with diabetes mellitus. Vetsulin is available by
prescription as a 10 ml multidose vial containing 40 International Units (IU) of porcine
insulin zinc suspension per ml and is given to dogs by subcutaneous injection.
What should I discuss with my veterinarian before giving
Vetsulin: Do not give Vetsulin if your DOG is allergic to insulin. Before using Vetsulin,
tell your veterinarian if your dog has any other medical conditions such as; vomiting and/or
diarrhea, pancreatitis, hypothyroidism, or Cushing¿s disease, or if your dog takes any other
prescription or over the counter medications, including vitamins, minerals, and herbal
supplements. Tell your veterinarian if your dog has any liver or kidney disease; or if your dog
is pregnant, nursing, or if you plan to breed your dog.
How should this medication be given: Vetsulin should be given
according to your veterinarian¿s instructions. Vetsulin is given using a U-40 syringe only. Use
of a syringe other than a U-40 syringe will result in incorrect dosing. Vetsulin should not be
shaken. Just prior to use, the vial should be mixed by rolling the vial between the palms of
your hands 10 times. Do not reuse a syringe. Dispose of all syringes in an appropriate
puncture-resistant disposal container. Vetsulin should be stored in an upright position under
refrigeration (36º-46º F). Do not freeze, Protect from light. Keep this medication out of the
reach of children and pets.
What happens if I miss giving a dose: Follow your veterinarian¿s
directions if you miss giving a dose of Vetsulin. To prevent missed doses, be sure to always
have enough Vetsulin on hand.
What happens if I overdose the pet: Contact your veterinarian
immediately if you inject more than the prescribed amount of Vetsulin.
What should I avoid while giving Vetsulin: Vetsulin should be
given to dogs only. Vetsulin should not be administered to humans. Call a physician immediately
if you accidentally inject yourself with Vetsulin. Do not give a dose of Vetsulin to a dog
experiencing an episode of low blood glucose (hypoglycemia). Common causes for hypoglycemia
include excessive doses of insulin, failure to eat, accidental doubling of insulin dose,
strenuous exercise, correction of obesity or diabetes-inducing disease, drug effects.
What are the possible side effects of Vetsulin: Rarely, allergic
reactions to insulin can occur. Seek emergency veterinary medical attention if an allergic
reaction is experienced (difficulty breathing, swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; or
hives). Other serious side effects can occur with or without warning. The most common
insulin-related side effect is low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) with symptoms that include;
lethargy, staggering gait, seizure or coma. Contact your veterinarian immediately if your dog
has a medical problem or side effect from Vetsulin therapy. Other side effects may occur. Talk
to your veterinarian about any side effect that seems unusual or bothersome to the dog.
What other drugs will affect Vetsulin: Vetsulin can be given
with other medications, but the dose may need to be adjusted due to the medication resulting in
either increased or decreased insulin requirements. Progestogen (such as megestrol) and
glucocorticoids (such as cortisone, prednisone, dexamethasone, triamcinolone) should be avoided
during Vetsulin therapy. Progestogen, glucocorticoids, and certain endocrine diseases may
counter the effect of insulin. Do not give any other prescription or over the counter
medications, including vitamins, minerals and herbal products, without first talking to your
veterinarian or pharmacist during treatment with Vetsulin.
Where can I get more information: Your pharmacist has additional
information about Vetsulin written for health professionals that you can read.
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