Insulin & diabetes — common questions

In most countries insulin is a prescription-only medicine, so a legitimate pharmacy will always ask for a valid prescription. A website offering insulin with no prescription is a strong warning sign of an unlicensed operation. Speak to a clinician about the correct, lawful way to obtain insulin where you live. See our safety guide for the warning signs.

No. Blood-sugar targets are individualised and depend on factors such as age, the type of diabetes, other health conditions and pregnancy. Your clinician sets the ranges that are right for you, rather than a single figure copied from the internet.

In type 1 diabetes the body makes little or no insulin and insulin therapy is required. In type 2 diabetes the body becomes resistant to insulin and may not make enough; it is managed with a range of approaches that can include lifestyle changes, oral medicines and sometimes insulin. A clinician can explain what applies to your situation. More detail is on our diabetes types overview.

In general, insulin is kept cool and protected from extreme heat and from freezing, and unused supplies are often refrigerated. Exact storage instructions vary by product, so follow the product leaflet and ask a licensed pharmacist about the insulin you have been prescribed.

Sites offering prescription weight-loss or diabetes medicines with no prescription and no medical oversight are a major warning sign. The products may be counterfeit, incorrectly dosed or unsafe. Any decision about these medicines should be made with a licensed clinician, and any medicine should be obtained from a licensed pharmacy.

No. This is an independent educational resource only. It sells nothing, dispenses no medication, and does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. For anything specific to you, consult a licensed healthcare professional or pharmacist. Read more on our about & disclaimer page.