Veterinary Clinical Medicine-I (General and Systemic)

INSULIN THERAPY

• Insulin is classified in 3 categories: short- (regular), intermediate-(lente, NPH, Caninsulin®) and long-acting (ultralente or PZI in the USA) preparations.
• Concentrations frequently available are 100 U/ml or 40 U/ml,
• In cats: initial recommended dosage varies from 0.25 to 0.5 U/kg, i.e., 1 to 3 U per cat. 
• In dogs: initial recommended dosage is around 0.5 U/kg 2x/day with an intermediate insulin.

Client education is paramount:

•  they must be informed of the clinical signs of hypoglycemia (lethargy, trembling, seizures)
• how to store and administer the insulin.
• Usually 3 to 4 visits at one-week intervals are usually required to obtain an adequate control of the diabetes.
• Home blood glucose monitoring has to be done