BG Readings & Insulin

[Toby.SYSLC]

Hi I am type 2 diabetic and am commencing insulin therapy (Novomix 30) of tomorrow Friday 13th December 2024 taking 14 Units twice daily.

I am wondering though as I will take the insulin prior to eating breakfast and having evening meal , do you test your Blood glucose prior to the insulin or after the insulin as I have only been told to continue testing my blood before eating?

Thanks in advance for any replies 🙂

 

[mashedupmatt]

Hi @Toby.Rotherham.DUK.Group - I've no experience of Novomix, so I've found the Patient Information Leaflet:


So probably test just before you inject would be best (i.e. before it starts working) - I'm assuming you've been advised to inject 10 mins before eating?

And then test again 2 hours after eating is generally recommended - to see that it is bringing your BG back down

 

[Inka]

Before you take the insulin @Toby.Rotherham.DUK.Group I used mixed insulin many years ago. The aim is to be back in range by the next meal so test before lunch as well. You should also test at bedtime. In addition, test any time you feel funny.

If you drive, you’ll need to inform the DVLA that you’ve started insulin. You’ll also have to test before driving and follow their guidance.

 

[Inka]

Hi @Toby.Rotherham.DUK.Group - I've no experience of Novomix, so I've found the Patient Information Leaflet:

View attachment 32950
So probably test just before you inject would be best (i.e. before it starts working) - I'm assuming you've been advised to inject 10 mins before eating?

And then test again 2 hours after eating is generally recommended - to see that it is bringing your BG back down

It’s slightly different with mixed insulin as you can’t adjust the fast portion alone. There’s guidance re dose adjustment based on testing before meals and at bedtime.

 

[mashedupmatt]

Thanks @Inka - learning all the time 🙂

 

[Toby.SYSLC]

Thanks people

 

[goodybags]

Hi @Toby.Rotherham.DUK.Group I’ve been taking that insulin for about the last 10 years
I think back when I first took it I was about that same dose (now basically half that amount)

I always try to take mine approximately 10 mins before my morning and evening meal or sometimes if I forgot (which I used to do regularly after my meal)
I find taking the NovaMix before eating works for me

As @Inka posted don’t forget to notify DVLA and test in accordance with their requirements (before driving and pull over every 2 hrs to test)
regarding testing how many times a day were you previously finger prick testing
and what was your last Hba1c?