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Correction Insulin

Correction insulin is meant to “correct” or lower high blood sugar before meals.  Some people take it if blood sugars are high at bedtime.  It is given in addition to the scheduled (or usual) dose that is meant to cover your meal. It will not prevent high blood sugars.

 

Types of Correction Insulin

Short-acting or rapid-acting insulin can be used. Examples include.

  • Regular
  • Novolog® (Aspart)
  • Humalog® (Lispro)

 Key Points to Remember

 

  • Do not eat less food because of the high blood sugar.  This can put you at risk for low blood sugars.

 

  • Do not take correction insulin more often than every 4-6 hours unless you have been directed to do so.

 

  • If you need to use correction insulin daily, for three or more days in a row, call your health care team. Your usual doses may need to be changed.

 

  • Exercise will likely lower your blood sugars.  You may not need correction insulin at the meal before or after you exercise.  Discuss this with your health care team.

 
 My doses as of this date _________ are:________________________

Correction Insulin Type: _________________

Before Meals

 

If Blood Glucose is:

Add this much insulin:

 

Less than 150 mg/dl

 

No extra insulin

 

151 - 200

 

                         units

 

201 - 250

 

                         units

 

251 - 300

 

                         units

 

301 - 350

 

                         units

 

351 - 400

 

                         units

 

Before Bedtime

 

If Blood Glucose is:

Add this much insulin:

 

Less than 200 mg/dL

 

 

No extra insulin

 

201 - 250

 

 

                          units

 

251 - 300

 

 

                          units

 

301 - 350

 

 

                          units

 

351 - 400

 

 

                          units

 

 

 

        

                           units

 

The Spanish version of this Health Facts for You is #6944.

 



The information provided should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.

Last Updated: 12/20/2010

Copyright © 12/20/2010 University of Wisconsin Hospitals and Clinics Authority. All rights reserved. Produced by the Department of Nursing. UWH #5923

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