Indications
Biphasic insulin aspart (a premixed insulin, commonly 30% soluble and 70% protamine-bound insulin aspart) is used to control blood sugar in adults and children with diabetes mellitus who need insulin.
How It Works
Insulin lets body cells take up glucose from the blood and reduces the amount of sugar made by the liver. This premix contains two parts: a fast-acting part that starts working within about 10 to 20 minutes to cover a meal, and an intermediate-acting part that keeps working for up to about 24 hours to provide background insulin.
Dosage and Administration
The dose is set individually by the doctor based on blood sugar levels, diet and activity, as prescribed. It is usually injected under the skin of the abdomen, thigh or upper arm once or twice daily, just before a meal (within 10 minutes before, or soon after if needed). Before each injection, gently roll and tip the pen or vial until the liquid is evenly cloudy and white. Change the injection site each time. Never inject into a vein or muscle, and never share pens or needles.
Interactions
Many medicines change insulin needs. Other diabetes medicines, alcohol, some antibiotics and ACE inhibitors may lower blood sugar further. Steroids, thiazide diuretics, thyroid hormones and some antipsychotics may raise it. Beta blockers such as Propranolol can hide the warning signs of low blood sugar. Pioglitazone with insulin can increase fluid retention.
Contraindications
- Low blood sugar (hypoglycaemia) at the time of injection.
- Allergy to insulin aspart or any ingredient.
Side Effects
Low blood sugar is the most common side effect: shaking, sweating, fast heartbeat, hunger, confusion, irritability or blurred vision. Treat it at once with sugar, glucose tablets or a sweet drink, then a snack. Redness, swelling or lumps at injection sites and weight gain can occur.
Get urgent medical help if low blood sugar causes fainting, fits or confusion that does not improve with sugar, or for signs of a severe allergic reaction such as swelling of the face or difficulty breathing. Also seek help for very high blood sugar with vomiting, deep breathing or drowsiness.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Insulin aspart can be used in pregnancy and breastfeeding. Insulin needs change during pregnancy and after delivery, so close monitoring and dose adjustment by the doctor are needed.
Precautions and Warnings
Check blood sugar regularly. Missed meals, extra exercise, illness or alcohol can cause low blood sugar. Do not switch insulin types or brands without medical advice. Always carry sugar and a diabetes ID. Take care when driving.
Overdose
Too much insulin causes low blood sugar, which can be severe. Take sugar immediately; if the person is unconscious, call emergency help: glucagon or intravenous glucose may be needed.
Therapeutic Class
Antidiabetic, premixed (biphasic) rapid-acting insulin analogue.
Storage
Unopened: store in a refrigerator at 2 to 8°C, do not freeze, protect from light. In use: may be kept below 30°C for up to 4 weeks, away from heat and light. Keep out of the reach of children.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.