Hello, 66 Yr. Old White Male. DMII. Been Taking SOLIQUA

Posted on Fri, 29 Mar 2019

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Fri, 29 Mar 2019 Answered on

Last reviewed on

Question : Hello,
66 yr. old white male. DMII. Been taking SOLIQUA 100/33 Insulin for about 8 mos. Started at 14 units, and worked my way up to 45 units. Stopped it about a week ago, as my lower legs and feet were on fire. Felt much better for 3-4 Days, now I can barely stand the neuropathic pain in my feet. Q: Is it okay to resume the insulin at 45 units, or do I need to start with a lower dose?
Can't see my Doc til late next week. Just checked my blood after 8 hrs. of fasting, and it was 396 (highest I've ever seen it). Also, I'm on 1200mg daily of Gabapentin.
Thank you.
Bill

Answered by Dr. Dr. (2 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Yes you can. Watch for hypoglycemia symptoms.

Detailed Answer:
Hello,

I have gone through your query and here is my advice.

As per your history, pain in lower legs and feet may be due to diabetic neuropathy. For that, there is no need to stop insulin injections.

Fasting sugar level of 396 is much higher.

If you are regularly taking 45 units of insulin, then now you can start with the same dose.

You may require dose titration as per the next fasting blood sugar level. Please check blood sugar at least three times a day before meal and 2hours after dinner.

Along with that watch for hypoglycemia symptoms like sweating, dizziness, shakiness, rapid heartbeats.

For neuropathic pain, you can add the tab. Nortriptyline 10mg to 25mg after consultation with your doctor. Please also use cushioned shoes and take proper foot care.

Let me know I can assist you further.

Regards,
Dr. Shyam Kale

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Arnab Banerjee