How do you know if insulin got too hot? | Dr. Jody Stanislaw

Summary

Dr. Jody Stanislaw provides practical advice for people with Type 1 Diabetes on how to handle insulin, especially when it may lose potency. She emphasizes the importance of proper insulin storage, particularly avoiding extreme heat, and being mindful of how long insulin has been open. While insulin doesn’t suddenly lose effectiveness after 28 days, its potency gradually diminishes. Dr. Jody encourages flexibility in managing diabetes, offering insights into how to identify insulin issues and maintain good blood sugar control. She also introduces her courses to help Type 1 Diabetics improve their blood sugar management and achieve better health outcomes.

Takeaways

• 😀 Keep insulin out of extreme heat, especially in hot cars, as it can lose its effectiveness when exposed to high temperatures (90-100°F).
• 😀 Insulin’s potency decreases over time. If it’s been open for more than 28 days, it may weaken, and you may notice your blood sugar isn’t coming down as expected.
• 😀 Insulin doesn’t just 'go bad' after 28 days; its potency gradually decreases, so be mindful of how long it’s been open.
• 😀 Even if you don’t use ice packs for insulin, just keep it out of direct sunlight and high heat during travel, and it should be fine.
• 😀 Insulin can still work after being exposed to heat, but its potency may decrease, leading to less effective blood sugar management.
• 😀 When you notice consistent high blood sugar despite efforts to manage it, it might be a sign your insulin has gone bad or lost effectiveness.
• 😀 Insulin is a protein that can 'denature' (break down) when exposed to heat, making it unable to perform as intended.
• 😀 Insulin exposure to heat in situations like leaving it in a car for extended periods can lead to it becoming ineffective and unusable.
• 😀 Type 1 diabetes requires flexibility and cannot be managed with strict rules alone. Pay attention to how your body responds and adjust accordingly.
• 😀 Keep in mind that other factors, like hormones, illness, or eating high-fat meals, can also cause high blood sugar, so don’t assume insulin is always the culprit.

Q & A

How do you know when your insulin goes bad?

Insulin can lose potency over time, especially if it's been exposed to heat or has been open for more than 28 days. If your blood sugar levels aren't responding well to your insulin, it might be a sign that it has degraded.

What happens if insulin gets too hot?

If insulin is exposed to extreme heat, such as being left in a hot car or in direct sunlight, it can denature and become ineffective. This means it won’t work properly and could lead to poor blood sugar control.

Can insulin be used after the 28-day mark?

Insulin's effectiveness may weaken after 28 days, but it doesn't suddenly stop working. While it may still work, its potency decreases, and you may notice less effective blood sugar control.

What are the signs that insulin might be bad?

If your blood sugar isn't coming down as expected, or if you're consistently running high despite consistent insulin doses, it could be a sign that your insulin is no longer as effective.

What factors can affect insulin potency other than heat?

Other factors that can affect insulin potency include how long the insulin has been open, the presence of physical damage to the insulin vial, or if it has been exposed to inconsistent storage conditions.

Is it necessary to keep insulin cold at all times?

No, insulin does not need to be kept cold at all times. It should be kept away from extreme heat and direct sunlight, but it doesn’t require refrigeration unless it's being stored long-term.

How should insulin be stored when traveling?

When traveling, keep your insulin in a shaded area, away from direct sunlight or extreme temperatures. It's not necessary to use ice packs, but it should be protected from overheating.

What is the recommended A1C goal for people with Type 1 diabetes?

The American Diabetes Association recommends an A1C below 7%, and the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists suggests aiming for below 6.5%.

Can insulin effectiveness be affected by other factors like illness or hormones?

Yes, factors such as illness, hormonal changes, or increased stress can cause insulin resistance or affect its effectiveness, which can lead to blood sugar fluctuations.

What should you do if you notice your blood sugars are not coming down despite using insulin?

If your blood sugars are consistently high and insulin is not bringing them down, consider whether the insulin has been exposed to heat or is past its effective window. If you're unsure, consult with your healthcare provider to explore other potential causes.