Dawn phenomenon and how to combat it

TypeZero.

Well-Known Member
Messages
296
So at the moment I use Lantus and NovoRapid and I have a pretty pronounced dawn effect. I’m thinking about ways to suppress the dawn effect. My initial thought was changing my Lantus to a different basal that has a bit more of a peak and then coincide that peak with the rise of my blood sugar.

Has anyone tried doing this?

IMG_1339.jpg


As you can see from 1am my BG rises from about 5.8-5.9 to 8.5-9. I wake around 6am but that means I go high for some time. I was wondering if it is advisable to switch to an insulin that peaks.

How do you guys counter your dawn phenomenon?
 

TypeZero.

Well-Known Member
Messages
296
We are all different but the rise you are seeing does not look to em like a typical Dawn Phenomenon. DP usually starts much later (around 4am) and rises steeper.
In your position, I would review when you last ate and when you take your basal.
For example, Lantus typically lasts 22 hours. I recommend taking a look at the Lantus profile - it is not flat, for many it lasts less than 24 hours and has a small peak. This may explain your night time blood sugars.
If you are concerned (I would not be concerned, especially after 3 months whilst still in honeymoon), talk to your diabetes team. You should be able to call/email your DSN if they are any good.

I’ve got an idea but I don’t know if it will work, will have to consult my DSN.

My lowest blood sugars are during midday I don’t know if that is because I’m more insulin sensitive or because of my Lantus kicking in (I inject at 6am), I’m thinking what if I change the time I take my Lantus so that it finishes during middday when I am the lowest