Caninsulin (Insulin)

Caninsulin® is a veterinary medication used in the treatment of diabetes mellitus in cats and dogs. The active ingredient in Caninsulin® is insulin, a hormone that regulates blood sugar levels. In diabetic pets, naturally produced insulin is insufficient, requiring external administration. Injected insulin helps move glucose from the bloodstream into the cells, where it's used for energy. Remember, Caninsulin® should only be used under the strict guidance of a veterinary professional.

Caninsulin® comes in two presentations: a vial (10 mL) for large diabetic dogs and a cartridge (2.7 mL) for smaller dogs and cats, used with the VetPen®. The VetPen® is specifically developed for dosing smaller volumes of Caninsulin® and comes in two sizes: VetPen 8 for diabetic cats and small dogs, and VetPen 16 for small to medium-sized diabetic dogs.

Caninsulin® is a 40 IU per mL aqueous suspension of highly purified porcine insulin, comprising 30% amorphous zinc insulin and 70% crystalline zinc insulin. It's designed to cater to the needs of diabetic cats and dogs. Porcine insulin is structurally identical to canine insulin.

Dosage varies depending on each animal's needs and it is vital to follow the directions of your vet. The initial starting dose for dogs is often given once daily, which may be adjusted based on clinical signs and blood glucose measurements. Cats require twice-daily administration, with starting doses based on weight and fasting blood glucose levels. Below is a summary based on the manufacturer’s instructions and is a guide only and is not intended to replace advice from your vet:

For Dogs:

• Large Dogs: Use Caninsulin 10 mL vials.

• Small to Medium-Sized Dogs: Use Caninsulin cartridges with VetPen 8 or 16, depending on the dog's size.

• Starting Dose: It's based on the dog's weight, usually 0.5 IU/kg once daily. For example, a 10 kg dog starts with 5 IU once daily.

• Adjustments: Increase or decrease the dose by about 10% based on blood glucose levels and clinical signs. Adjustments are usually made every 3 to 7 days.

• Twice-Daily Dosing: If needed, reduce the dose by 25% and give it twice a day, 12 hours apart. For instance, a 10 kg dog would get 3 IU per injection twice daily.

• Feeding: Feed dogs in sync with insulin treatment. For once-daily treatment, feed one meal at injection time and another 6-8 hours later. For twice-daily treatment, feed at each injection time.

For Cats:

• Cats need Caninsulin twice daily.

• Starting Dose: Depends on the cat's weight and blood glucose level. For high glucose levels, the dose is higher. However, don't exceed 2 IU twice daily in the first 3 weeks, even if calculations suggest a higher dose. Always follow your vet’s advice.

• Adjustments: Make changes based on blood glucose measurements, usually not more often than weekly. Adjust by 1 IU per injection.

• Feeding: Keep the diet consistent. Cats that graze can continue to eat as usual.

For both dogs and cats, it's important to consistently monitor their blood glucose levels and consult a vet for any significant changes in their health or behaviour. Don’t change your pet’s dose without discussing it with your vet first.

It should not be used in cases of hypoglycemia, for initial treatment of severe acute diabetes mellitus in a ketoacidotic state, intravenously, or in animals treated with progestogens or glucocorticosteroids. Stress and irregular exercise should also be avoided in diabetic pets.

While adverse reactions to Caninsulin® are rare, hypoglycemia due to overdosage is a risk. Care should be taken to avoid accidental self-injection. Hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar, in pets can show different symptoms that might change over time and are not always easy to identify. Common signs include changes in mental state and behaviour, seizures, fainting, muscle twitches, drowsiness, lack of energy during physical activity, shaking muscles, collapsing, unsteady walking, weakness, and problems with seeing clearly.

Vials: Caninsulin® must be stored correctly to maintain its efficacy. Store upright, between 2°C and 8°C (refrigerate). DO NOT FREEZE. Protect from light. Discard unused portion after 6 weeks.

Cartridges (VetPen): Store unopened cartridges refrigerated between 2°C and 8°C. DO NOT FREEZE. Prior to first use, cartridges must always be stored in an upright position. Once cartridge is loaded into the VetPen and used it can be stored lying on its side. Protect from light. After first use, cartridge may either be stored at room temperature (below 25°C) for 28 days or between 2°C and 8°C for 6 weeks. Discard any unused portion.

In case of accidental self-injection, oral glucose should be administered, and medical advice sought immediately. Contact the New Zealand National Poisons Centre at www.poisons.co.nz/animal-helpline/ or phone 0800 869 738 for assistance.

Both dogs and cats may require adjustments to their Caninsulin® dose over time. Regular follow-up examinations are crucial to monitor the pet's health and adjust the dose accordingly.

What is Caninsulin® used for?

• Caninsulin® is used to treat diabetes mellitus in cats and dogs.

How is Caninsulin® administered?

• Caninsulin® should be administered by subcutaneous injection, with the site of injection rotated daily.

Can Caninsulin® be used in all diabetic pets?

• Caninsulin® is not recommended for pets with hypoglycemia or those in a ketoacidotic state.

What should I do if my pet shows signs of hypoglycemia?

• If hypoglycemia occurs, administer oral glucose immediately and consult your vet.

Where can I get more information if my pet has an adverse reaction to Caninsulin®?

• Contact your veterinarian. For accidental self-injection contact the New Zealand National Poisons Centre at www.poisons.co.nz/animal-helpline/ or phone 0800 869 738 for assistance.

We hope this article provides a clear understanding of Canisulin® for your pet. Remember, always seek advice from your veterinarian for any health-related decisions for your pets.