Final answer:
Opened insulin vials are generally usable for up to 28 days at room temperature, while insulin pens and cartridges last 10 to 28 days after opening, dependent on the type. Insulin injections decrease glucose levels post-meal. Insulin degradation, primarily by liver cells, occurs roughly 71 minutes after release into circulation.
Step-by-step explanation:
Once an insulin package has been opened, the length of time you can keep it varies based on the type of insulin and storage recommendations provided by the manufacturer. Generally speaking, opened vials of insulin kept at room temperature (below 86°F or 30°C) should be used within 28 days. Pens and cartridges that are in use should be discarded after 10 to 28 days, depending on the type. It's essential to refer to the insulin's packaging or consult with a healthcare provider for specific storage guidelines to ensure its effectiveness.
Insulin injections serve an important role in the management of blood glucose levels. Option d accurately describes their function: insulin injections allow transport and storage of glucose to decrease blood glucose levels after consuming a large or high-glucose meal. This process helps maintain blood glucose within a normal range to prevent both acute and long-term complications associated with diabetes.
The degradation of insulin occurs after it has completed its action in the body. Insulin molecules typically degrade about 71 minutes after release into circulation, mainly by liver cells through the process involving endocytosis of the insulin-receptor complex followed by the action of insulin degrading enzyme. Understanding the degradation process is crucial for comprehending the timeframe during which insulin remains active in the body.