Introduction
NovoLog is a fast-acting form of insulin called insulin aspart that is used to control high blood sugar in people and animals with diabetes mellitus.
Diabetes develops when the pancreas does not make enough insulin or when the body cannot use insulin effectively. Insulin is necessary for the body to be able to use glucose from ingested food for energy. When there is not enough insulin or insufficient response to insulin, glucose builds up in the bloodstream, leading to high blood sugar and hyperglycemia.
NovoLog is a manufactured, fast-acting insulin that works similarly to the insulin naturally made in the body. It starts working within 15 minutes after injection and has its strongest effect 30 minutes to 90 minutes after use. NovoLog is prescribed to help regulate blood sugar levels in diabetic dogs and cats.
By replacing the missing or deficient natural insulin, NovoLog helps get glucose from the bloodstream into the cells to be used for energy. This brings blood sugar levels down into the normal range and prevents the short-term and long-term complications of uncontrolled diabetes.
Is NovoLog Safe for Dogs?
NovoLog (insulin aspart) is a fast-acting insulin that was originally developed for use in humans with diabetes. However, it can also be used safely in dogs under veterinary supervision.
According to the FDA, NovoLog is approved for use in cats but not officially approved for use in dogs. However, veterinarians commonly prescribe human insulin like NovoLog for dogs with diabetes when animal-source insulin is not sufficient in controlling blood sugar levels.
The key is using the correct NovoLog dosage for dogs based on weight, diet, activity level, and blood glucose response. NovoLog has a fast onset and short duration in dogs, so frequent dosing and close monitoring of blood glucose is important. Used properly under veterinary guidance, NovoLog can be a safe way to manage diabetes in dogs.
One study found NovoLog to be safe and effective when administered to dogs twice daily. The study concluded that NovoLog can be used successfully in dogs with diabetes mellitus when regular insulin therapy is not sufficient for glycemic control.
How Insulin Works in Dogs
Insulin is an important hormone that helps regulate blood sugar (glucose) levels in the body. Here’s how it works in dogs:
After a dog eats, the carbohydrates and sugars in the food get broken down into glucose during digestion. The glucose gets absorbed into the bloodstream, causing blood sugar levels to rise.
The pancreas detects this rise in blood glucose and secretes insulin in response. Insulin allows glucose to move from the blood into the body’s cells, where it can be used for energy.
Insulin binds to insulin receptors on cell membranes, signaling the cells to open up glucose channels. This allows glucose to leave the bloodstream and enter the cells.
Without enough insulin, glucose builds up in the bloodstream instead of being absorbed by cells. This results in high blood sugar or hyperglycemia.
In diabetic dogs, the pancreas either doesn’t produce enough insulin or the body’s cells are resistant to insulin. This causes a chronic elevation of blood glucose levels.
Giving insulin injections helps make up for the lack of natural insulin production and maintains normal blood sugar levels in diabetic dogs. The added insulin allows glucose to be removed from the blood and used for energy again.
(Source: https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/diabetes-mellitus-insulin-treatment-in-dogs)
Using Human Insulin in Dogs
Using human insulin in dogs has both advantages and disadvantages. Some of the pros of using human insulin include:
- Human insulin tends to be less expensive than animal-specific insulin formulations.
- Types like glargine (Lantus) can provide 24-hour coverage with once daily injections (1).
- Human insulin has been well-studied and used safely in dogs under veterinary supervision.
Some of the potential downsides of using human insulin in dogs include:
- The absorption rate and duration of activity may not be ideal in dogs.
- More frequent blood glucose monitoring and dose adjustments may be needed.
- There is a lack of licensed veterinary formulations, though vets commonly prescribe human insulin off-label.
Overall, human insulin can be a safe, effective, and affordable option for diabetic dogs under veterinary care. However, animal-specific insulin formulations tailored for dogs may provide better glycemic control with fewer blood glucose fluctuations in some cases (2). Vets can advise owners on the pros and cons of different insulin options for their diabetic dog.
Dosage and Administration
When administering NovoLog to dogs, it’s important to determine the appropriate dosage and administer it properly. According to the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA), the recommended starting dose for dogs is typically 0.25-0.5 units/kg every 12 hours, rounded down to the nearest whole unit and generally not exceeding 2 units/cat every 12 hours.[1]
The dosage should be individually determined based on the dog’s needs and glucose regulation. Factors like the dog’s body weight, diet, activity level, and concurrent illnesses should be taken into account. Frequent glucose monitoring is essential, especially when first starting insulin therapy or adjusting doses.
To administer NovoLog, draw up the proper dose into a U-100 insulin syringe. NovoLog should be injected subcutaneously, meaning under the skin rather than into the muscle or vein. Common injection sites include the side of the neck, armpit, flank, or hindleg. It’s important to rotate injection sites to avoid lipodystrophy, or thickened skin at the injection site. NovoLog is a rapid-acting insulin that starts working within 5-15 minutes, so it should be given right before a meal.
Work closely with your veterinarian to determine the optimal NovoLog dosage and administration schedule for your diabetic dog. Frequent veterinary monitoring and at-home blood glucose testing are imperative for safe and effective insulin therapy.
[1] https://www.aaha.org/aaha-guidelines/diabetes-management/treatment/insulin-therapies/
Monitoring Blood Glucose
Regular monitoring of your dog’s blood glucose levels is extremely important when administering insulin like NovoLog. Frequent testing allows you to ensure the insulin is working effectively and that your dog’s blood sugar remains within the normal range. Monitoring also helps detect hypoglycemia or other adverse effects early on.
Blood glucose curves are commonly used to monitor insulin therapy in diabetic dogs. This involves testing your dog’s blood sugar every 2-3 hours over a 12 hour period to identify peaks and troughs. Curves help determine if the insulin dose needs adjustment. They should be performed initially until regulated, then every 3-6 months thereafter. More frequent testing may be needed with changes in diet, activity, medications etc. [1]
For most dogs, blood glucose testing 2-4 times per day is recommended for close monitoring with insulin therapy. Testing is ideally done before meals and insulin injections. [2] Tracking results helps identify trends and determine if any adjustments in therapy are needed.
Side Effects
As with any medication, NovoLog use in dogs can potentially lead to some side effects. According to Drugs.com, some of the common side effects of NovoLog in humans include low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), injection site reactions, weight gain, headaches, and diarrhea. These side effects may also occur in dogs using NovoLog.
The most serious potential side effect of NovoLog in dogs is hypoglycemia or low blood sugar. This occurs when too much insulin is given, resulting in blood glucose dropping to dangerously low levels. Signs of hypoglycemia in dogs include lethargy, weakness, uncoordinated movements, seizures, and loss of consciousness. If left untreated, severe hypoglycemia can lead to coma or even death. It’s critical to monitor blood glucose levels and adjust insulin dosages accordingly to avoid episodes of hypoglycemia.
Dogs may also experience reactions at the injection site, such as pain, redness, itching, swelling, or scarring. Rotating injection sites can help minimize these reactions. Some dogs gain weight with insulin therapy, likely due to better glucose control and increased appetite. This side effect can often be managed through diet and exercise. Less common side effects like headaches and diarrhea are also possible.
While NovoLog is considered safe for dogs when used properly under veterinary supervision, owners should watch closely for any side effects and alert their vet if any occur. Frequent blood glucose monitoring, appropriate insulin dosing, and diet and exercise management are key to minimizing risks.
Signs of Hypoglycemia
Hypoglycemia in dogs can cause both acute and chronic signs. Acute hypoglycemia occurs suddenly, while chronic hypoglycemia comes on gradually. Some of the most common signs of low blood sugar in dogs include:
– Weakness and lethargy
– Trembling or shakiness
– Uncoordinated or wobbly gait
– Staggering and falling down
– Seizures or convulsions
– Confusion and disorientation
– Hunger without interest in food
– Anxiety or restlessness
– Dilated pupils
– Rapid heart rate
– Panting and vomiting
– Loss of consciousness or coma
If your dog shows signs of low blood sugar, it is important to act quickly. Offer your dog some honey, corn syrup or maple syrup to help raise their glucose levels. Contact your veterinarian immediately if symptoms do not improve. Severe hypoglycemia can be fatal if left untreated.
Precautions
When using NovoLog or any other insulin for dogs, it is important to take precautions to ensure proper storage, handling, and dosing accuracy. According to the FDA, unopened vials of NovoLog should be stored in a refrigerator between 36-46°F (2-8°C). Once opened, the vial can be kept at room temperature below 86°F (30°C) for up to 28 days. Insulin should not be frozen or exposed to excessive heat as this can alter its potency. Dosing accuracy is critical, so always use an insulin syringe to measure the dose precisely. The dose should be based on your veterinarian’s recommendations and adjusted based on regular monitoring of your dog’s blood glucose levels. Even small dosage errors can lead to potentially dangerous low or high blood sugar episodes. Adhere to the prescribed schedule for injections, handling any missed or late doses as directed by your vet. By taking precautions with storage, handling, and dosing, NovoLog can be used safely in diabetic dogs under veterinary supervision.
Conclusion
In most cases, NovoLog can be safely used in dogs with diabetes under the supervision of a veterinarian. By closely monitoring blood glucose levels and adjusting the dosage accordingly, NovoLog human insulin can help control blood sugar in diabetic dogs. However, pet owners should use extreme caution and consult a vet before administering NovoLog or any human insulin to dogs, as the dosage requirements differ from those in humans. Only a veterinarian can determine the appropriate starting dosage based on the dog’s weight, diet, and health status. As with any medication, side effects are possible even when used under veterinary guidance. Owners should watch for signs of hypoglycemia and be prepared to stop insulin therapy if adverse reactions occur. While NovoLog is not specifically approved for animal use, it can be a viable treatment option for diabetic dogs when prescribed by a knowledgeable vet.