Can You Overdose on Novolin R?
Novolin
® R (
regular insulin) is an injectable medication used to treat
diabetes. As with any medication, it is possible to take too much
Novolin R. As with all
insulins, an overdose with Novolin R can cause life-threatening complications. The specific effects of a Novolin R overdose may vary, depending on a number of factors, such as the
Novolin R dosage, dietary changes, or exercise changes.
Symptoms of a Novolin R Overdose
An overdose with short-acting insulins (such as Novolin R) is typically more dangerous than an overdose with a long-acting insulin, as short-acting insulins produce a relatively rapid and high peak of insulin activity.
An overdose of Novolin R can be caused by several factors, including misjudging how much insulin is needed for a particular meal. Also, not eating after taking a dose of Novolin R may result in an overdose, as Novolin R is designed to control blood sugar levels after a meal.
The most dangerous effect of a Novolin R overdose is low blood sugar levels (hypoglycemia). Some of the early symptoms of low blood sugar include:
- Dizziness
- Cold sweats
- Sweating
- Extreme hunger
- Shakiness
- Blurry vision.
Later, more severe symptoms include:
- Seizures
- Loss of consciousness
- Changes in behavior, such as irritability
- Loss of coordination
- Difficulty speaking
- Confusion
- Coma
- Loss of life.
You may find that you have your own unique set of low blood sugar symptoms. Anytime you suspect that you have low blood sugar levels, make sure to take immediate corrective action. Also, it is a good idea to let others around you know how to identify your particular signs of low blood sugar (and how to react), as you may be too confused (due to low blood sugar) to recognize the signs and respond adequately.
