[Change of insulin strength in Norway--a study of an information campaign].

This article describes and discusses the effects of an information campaign carried out in 1987 when the strength of the insulin solution was changed from u-40 to u-100. The data comprised drug sales statistics, records of errors, questionnaires to pharmacies and hospitals and press cuttings. The campaign was organized by a group of experts appointed by the Directorate of Health. Local activities were carried out by pharmacies and hospitals, which proved to be effective information channels. Almost all diabetics changed to u-100 over a three-month period. We recorded incidents of serious erroneous prescribing and administration of insulin, but no deaths or irreversible injuries. It was more difficult to reach target groups of health personnel in the primary health care. The change led to a distinct and probably permanent rise in the sale of insulin in Norway.