I injected insulin into my aunt when she had low blood sugar to help her. She only got worse and nearly ended up in hospital until her husband put insulin gel in her gums. Why didn’t her medication work?

 Several factors could contribute to your aunt's unexpected response to the insulin injection. It's crucial to understand that administering insulin without proper medical guidance can be extremely risky, and self-treatment in such situations is not recommended. Always consult with a healthcare professional for guidance on managing diabetes and low blood sugar

Secondly, the injection site may also play a role in the effectiveness of insulin absorption. Injecting insulin into fatty tissue rather than muscle could affect its absorption rate, potentially leading to a delayed response. Proper injection technique is crucial, and healthcare professionals typically provide guidance on the appropriate sites for insulin administration.

Thirdly, the timing of insulin administration is critical. If the injection was given too late or too early with your aunt's meals or insulin sensitivity, it could have contributed to the ineffectiveness of the treatment. Diabetes management often involves careful timing of insulin doses to match the body's natural insulin production and the digestion of food.

Lastly, there could be other underlying medical issues affecting your aunt's response to insulin. She needs to consult with a healthcare professional to investigate the reasons behind the unexpected reaction and to adjust her diabetes management plan accordingly.

In any case, it's crucial to emphasize the importance of seeking immediate medical attention in situations of severe hypoglycemia and not attempting to self-treat without professional guidance. The use of insulin gel in the gums, as mentioned in your situation, is not a standard or recommended method of treating hypoglycemia, and professional medical advice should be sought promptly.