Product Name: Actrapid ® MC
Substance: insulin the shortest duration of activity (~8 hour)
Delivery: 10ml vial (1000IU/1ml)
Manufacturer: Denmark, Novonordisk
Insulin is a hormone produced in the pancreas which helps to regulate
glucose levels in the body. Medically, it is typically used in the treatment
of diabetes. Recently, insulin has become quite popular among bodybuilders
due to the anabolic effect it can offer. With well-times injections,
insulin will help to bring glycogen and other nutrients to the muscle.
Actrapid ® MC
is the safest because it takes effect quickly and
has the shortest duration of activity. The other insulin formulations
remain active for a longer period and can put the user in an unexpected
state of hypoglycemia.
Hypoglycemia occurs when blood glucose levels are too low. It is a common
and potentially fatal reaction experienced by insulin users. Before
an athlete begins taking insulin, it is critical that he understands
the warning signs and symptoms of hypoglycemia. The following is a list
of symptoms which may indicate a mild to moderate hypoglycemia: hunger,
drowsiness, blurred vision, depressive mood, dizziness, sweating, palpitation,
tremor, restlessness, tingling in the hands, feet, lips, or tongue,
lightheadedness, inability to concentrate, headache, sleep disturbances,
anxiety, slurred speech, irritability, abnormal behavior, unsteady movement,
and personality changes. If any of these warning signs should occur,
an athlete should immediately consume a food or drink containing sugar
such as a candy bar or carbohydrate drink. This will treat a mild to
moderate hypoglycemia and prevent a severe state of hypoglycemia. Severe
hypoglycemia is a serious condition that may require medical attention.
Symptoms include disorientation, seizure, unconsciousness, and death.
Insulin is used in a wide variety of ways. Most athletes choose to use
it immediately after a workout. Dosages used are usually 1 IU per 10-20
pounds of lean bodyweight. First-time users should start at a low dosage
and gradually work up. For example, first begin with 2 IU and then increase
the dosage by 1 IU every consecutive workout. This will allow the athlete
to safely determine a dosage. Insulin dosages can very significantly
among athletes and are dependent upon insulin sensitivity and the use
of other drugs. Athletes using growth hormone can thyroid will have
higher insulin requirements, and therefore, will be able to handle higher
dosages.
Humilin R should be injected subcutaneously only with a U-100 insulin
syringe. Insulin syringes are available without a prescription in many
states. If the athlete cannot purchase the syringes at a pharmacy, he
can mail order them or buy them on the black market. Using a syringe
other than a U-100 is dangerous since it will be difficult to measure
out the correct dosage. Subcutaneous insulin injections are usually
given by pinching a fold of skin in the abdomen area. To speed up the
effect of insulin, many athletes will inject their dosage into the thighs
or triceps.
Most athletes will bring their insulin with them to the gym. Insulin
should be refrigerated, but it is all right to keep it in a gym bag
as long as it is kept away from excessive heat. Immediately after a
workout, the athlete will inject his dosage of insulin. Within the next
fifteen minutes, he should have a carbohydrate drink such as Ultra Fuel
by Twinlab. The athlete should consume at least 10 grams of carbohydrates
for every 1 IU of insulin injected. Most athletes will also take creatine
monohydrate with their carbohydrate drink since the insulin will help
to force the creatine into the muscles. An hour or so after injecting
insulin, most athletes will eat a meal or consume a protein shake. The
carbohydrate drink and meal/protein shake are necessary. Without them,
blood sugar levels will drop dangerously low and the athlete will most
likely go into a state of hypoglycemia.
Many athletes will get sleepy after injecting insulin. This may be a
symptom of hypoglycemia, and an athlete should probably consume more
carbohydrates. Avoid the temptation to go to bed since the insulin may
take its peak effect during sleep and significantly drop glucose levels.
Being unaware of the warning signs during this slumber, the athlete
is at a high risk of going into a state of severe hypoglycemia without
anyone realizing it. Humulin R usually remains active for only 4 hours
with a peak at about two hours after injecting. An athlete would be
wise to stay up for the 4 hours after injecting.
Rather than waiting to the end of a workout, many athletes prefer to
inject their insulin dosage 30 minutes before their training session
is over and then consume a carbohydrate drink immediately following
the workout. This will make the insulin more efficient at bringing glycogen
to the muscles, but it will also increase the danger of hypoglycemia.
Some athletes will even inject a few IUs before lifting to improve their
pump. This practice is extremely risky and best left to athletes with
experience using insulin. After the injection, they will consume a carbohydrate
drink and then have breakfast within the next hour. Some athletes find
this application of insulin very beneficial for putting on mass, while
others will tend to put on excess fat using insulin in this way.
Insulin use cannot be detected during a drug test. For this reason,
along with the fact that it is cheap and readily available, insulin
has become a popular drug among the competitive athlete. However, before
an athlete attempts to use insulin, he should educate himself and make
himself aware of the consequences. One mistake in dosage or diet can
be potentially fatal. |
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