HUMALOG KWIK PEN(LISPRO) (100 IU/ML)

Description

HUMALOG KWIK PEN (LISPRO) (100 IU/ML) refers to a pre-filled pen containing Insulin Lispro at a concentration of 100 International Units per milliliter. This is a rapid-acting insulin analogue used to manage diabetes.

Here’s a breakdown of key information:

What it is and what it’s used for:

• Insulin Lispro: This is a modified form of human insulin that starts working very quickly (typically within 10-20 minutes) and has a shorter duration of action (2-5 hours) compared to regular human insulin.
• Rapid-Acting Insulin: Due to its fast onset, it’s primarily used to control blood sugar spikes that occur after meals (post-prandial glucose control).
• Treatment of Diabetes Mellitus: Humalog KwikPen is prescribed for both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes mellitus in adults and children.
• How it works: It mimics the natural rapid release of insulin that occurs when food is consumed. It helps glucose from your bloodstream enter your cells for energy and reduces glucose production by the liver, thereby lowering blood sugar levels.

Administration:

• KwikPen Device: It comes as a convenient pre-filled pen designed for easy self-injection.
• Subcutaneous Injection: It is injected under the skin (subcutaneously) into areas like the abdomen, thigh, upper arm, or buttocks.
• Timing: It should be injected within 15 minutes before a meal or immediately (within 20 minutes) after starting a meal. The specific timing will be determined by your healthcare provider.
• Rotation of Injection Sites: It’s crucial to rotate injection sites within the chosen area to prevent issues like lipodystrophy (skin thickening or pits) and ensure consistent absorption.
• Do NOT dilute or mix: Humalog KwikPen 100 IU/mL should generally not be diluted or mixed with other insulins unless specifically instructed by a healthcare professional (e.g., mixing with NPH insulin in a syringe just before injection, but this is less common with pen devices).
• Not for IV or Pumps (unless specified): While Humalog U-100 (vial) can be used in insulin pumps or intravenously under strict medical supervision, the KwikPen formulation is generally for subcutaneous injection only. Humalog U-200 KwikPen should not be used in pumps or intravenously.
• Disposable Pen: The KwikPen is a disposable pen, and it’s essential not to share pens, even if the needle is changed, due to the risk of infection.

Important Considerations and Side Effects:

• Hypoglycemia (Low Blood Sugar): This is the most common side effect. Because it’s a rapid-acting insulin, the risk of hypoglycemia is higher if meals are delayed, missed, or if too much insulin is taken. Symptoms include sweating, shakiness, confusion, headache, dizziness, hunger, and rapid heartbeat. Always carry a source of fast-acting sugar to treat low blood sugar.
• Weight Gain: As with all insulins, some weight gain can occur.
• Injection Site Reactions: Redness, pain, swelling, itching, or lumps at the injection site are common. Rotating injection sites helps minimize these.
• Allergic Reactions: Rare but possible severe allergic reactions can occur.
• Hypokalemia (Low Potassium): Insulin can cause a shift of potassium into cells, potentially leading to low blood potassium levels.
• Alcohol Consumption: Alcohol can significantly affect blood sugar levels and should be consumed with caution or avoided as advised by your doctor.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Discuss with your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.
• Driving/Operating Machinery: Be aware that low or high blood sugar can impair your ability to concentrate and react.
• Storage: Unopened pens must be refrigerated (2°C-8°C). Once opened, they can typically be stored at room temperature for a limited period (check the specific product leaflet, usually around 28 days). Do not freeze.

Always consult your doctor, pharmacist, or diabetes educator for personalized medical advice, proper training on injection technique, and management of your diabetes. This information is for general knowledge and should not replace professional medical consultation.