INSULIN

Question 1

Drug class

Answer 1

Insulin

Question 2

How does it work in diabetes? (4)

Answer 2

1. stimulates glucose uptake from the circulation into the tissues
2. increases the use of glucose as an energy source
3. it stimulates glycogen, lipid and protein synthesis
4. it inhibits gluconeogenesis and ketogenesis

Question 3

How does insulin work in hyperkaelemia? (3)

Answer 3

1. draws K+ ions into the cells
2. this reduces serum K+ concentrations
3. once K+ is stopped K+ begins to leave the cells again

Question 4

Indications (3)

Answer 4

1. diabetes
   - type 1 and 2
2. peri-operative glycaemic control
3. hyperkaelemia

Question 5

Contra-indications

Answer 5

1. renal impairment

Question 6

Side effects (2)

Answer 6

1. hypoglycaemia

• coma
• death

2. Fat overgrowth
   - sub-cutaneous administration

Question 7

Interactions (2)

Answer 7

1. other hypogylcaemics
2. corticosteroids
   - require more insulin

Question 8

Elimination (2)

Answer 8

1. kidneys mainly

2. liver