Remind patients to:

• Check they have received the right insulin (show the patient the product)
• Use their insulin as advised by the prescriber (including using the right insulin syringe, needle or pen) and not to miss doses
• Test their blood glucose regularly (as appropriate for the individual patient), and in situations (e.g. illness) where increased testing may be required
• Rotate injection sites to avoid lipohypertrophy, which can lead to erratic absorption and compromise optimal glucose control
• Store appropriately – most insulins should be stored in the fridge when not in use and kept at room temperature once opened
• Record dates opened and use or discard any remaining product as instructed in the pack leaflet
• Dispose of their old insulin appropriately (where changes have been made) to avoid mixing it up with a new insulin.

Where insulin is delivered (e.g. to housebound patients or care home residents) or collected by patients’ carers/representatives, pharmacy teams should ensure that the prescribed insulin, the brand and the injection equipment match the information recorded in the insulin passport where available. Other ways to confirm the right insulin include contacting the patient, their GP, the care home or the diabetes clinic, and completing other necessary reconciliation checks prior to dispensing. Any action taken should be documented in the patient’s records.