protamine zinc recombinant human insulin

Side Effects
Possible side effects of insulin therapy include hypoglycemia. Signs include hunger, lethargy, nervousness, vocalization, anxiety, muscle tremors or trembling, weakness, ataxia/unsteadiness. If there are signs of hypoglycemia, offer the pet some food or oral glucose. Positive response should occur within one to two minutes, then contact your veterinarian.

Other side effects may occur. If you notice anything changes in your pet, contact your veterinarian.

ProZinc® Insulin should be administered as directed by your veterinarian. Mix the insulin by gently rolling in your hand before each dose. Do not shake the vial. Only use U-40 syringes to measure this product accurately (sold separately). Injections should be given subcutaneously, just under the skin either along the back of the neck or on the side of the cat. Be sure to rotate injection sites to prevent skin problems at the injection site. Pinch a fold in the skin to create a small space for the needle. Insert the needle into the center of the fold as instructed by the veterinarian. Inject the drug by pushing the plunger as far as it will go. Withdraw the needle and be careful to not stick yourself. Dispose the needle immediately in a proper sharps disposal container. Insulin requires refrigeration and must be shipped overnight.

Cautions
This medication is indicated for the reduction of hyperglycemia and hyperglycemia-associated clinical signs in cats with diabetes mellitus. Do not use on Dogs. Inform your veterinarian prior to use of this medication if your pet has low blood sugar (hypoglycemia). Do not switch from one type insulin to another unless under the direction of a veterinarian as making the switch may require an adjustment in the dose.

Make sure to tell your veterinarian what other medication or supplements you are giving your pet. Dietary changes may also affect insulin requirements. Quite often your veterinarian may prescribe two different medications, even if a drug interaction may occur. In this case, your veterinarian may vary the dose and/or monitor your pet more closely. The following drug interactions that may occur with insulin include: Beta-adrenergic blockers, clonidine, and digioxin. Drugs that may increase hypoglycemic activity of insulin (resulting in low blood sugar) include: captopril, enalapril, alcohol, anabolic steroids, beta-adrenergic blockers, MAOI’s, guanethidine, phenylbutazone, sulfinpyrazone, sulfonamides, tetracycline, and aspirin, or other salicyclates. Drugs that may decrease hypoglycemic activity of insulin (resulting in high blood sugar) include: epinephrine, estrogen/progesterone combinations, furosemide, glucocorticoids, isoniazide, phenothiazine derivatives, thiazide diuretics, and thyroid hormones. Serum potassium levels can fluctuate in combination with digoxin and insulin and additional monitoring may be needed. Contact your veterinarian if your pet experiences any unusual reactions when different medications are given together.

Allergic reactions to medications may occur. Be sure to inform VetSource and your veterinarian if your pet has any known drug sensitivities or allergies. If your pet displays symptoms of an allergic reaction, call your veterinarian immediately or go to a veterinary emergency clinic. Symptoms may include but are not limited to: swollen lips, tongue, face, airways; difficulty breathing; agitation; profuse salivation; vomiting; widespread hives and itching.