HUMALOG MIX-50 KWIKPEN (5PENX3ML)

Description

HUMALOG MIX-50 KwikPen (5 Pens x 3ml): A Convenient Solution for Diabetes Management

The HUMALOG MIX-50 KwikPen is a pre-filled, disposable insulin pen containing a premixed suspension of insulin lispro. It is designed to provide comprehensive blood sugar control for individuals with Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes mellitus. This specific formulation offers a balanced approach, combining both rapid-acting and intermediate-acting insulin in a single convenient injection. Each box typically contains 5 KwikPens, with each pen holding 3ml (300 units) of U-100 insulin.

Understanding the Blend: 50% Rapid, 50% Intermediate

HUMALOG MIX-50 is a unique blend of insulin lispro, an analog of human insulin, designed for optimized glucose control:

• 50% Insulin Lispro (Rapid-Acting): This component acts quickly, typically within 10-20 minutes after injection. Its purpose is to manage the sharp rise in blood glucose that occurs after meals. Insulin lispro is structurally modified to be absorbed faster than regular human insulin.
• 50% Insulin Lispro Protamine Suspension (Intermediate-Acting): This part of the mixture has a prolonged action. The insulin lispro is bound to protamine sulfate, which slows its absorption into the bloodstream. This provides a more sustained effect, helping to control blood sugar levels between meals and during the night.

This 50/50 ratio means that HUMALOG MIX-50 offers a more significant rapid-acting component compared to HUMALOG MIX-25 (which has 25% rapid-acting and 75% intermediate-acting insulin). This can be beneficial for individuals who experience more pronounced post-meal blood sugar spikes or require a more balanced rapid and intermediate action from a single injection.

Key Features and Benefits of HUMALOG MIX-50 KwikPen:

• Dual Action: Effectively manages both immediate post-meal blood sugar levels and provides sustained control between meals.
• Convenient KwikPen: As a pre-filled, disposable pen, it simplifies insulin administration, making it easier for patients to manage their daily doses. Each pen allows for flexible dosing from 1 to 60 units in 1-unit increments.
• Improved Glycemic Control: By targeting blood sugar spikes and providing basal support, it helps to maintain more stable glucose levels, which is crucial in reducing the risk of long-term diabetes complications such as kidney disease, nerve damage, eye problems, and cardiovascular issues.
• Flexibility in Timing: Typically administered within 15 minutes before a meal.

Important Usage and Administration:

• Subcutaneous Injection: HUMALOG MIX-50 is injected under the skin (subcutaneously) into areas like the abdomen, thigh, buttocks, or upper arm. It should never be injected intravenously or intramuscularly.
• Mixing Before Use: As it is a suspension, the KwikPen must be gently rolled between the palms at least 10 times and inverted 10 times immediately before each injection. This ensures the rapid and intermediate components are uniformly mixed (appearing uniformly cloudy white or milky). Do not shake vigorously.
• Priming the Pen: Before each injection, the pen should be primed by dialing 2 units and pushing the dose knob to ensure insulin flows from the needle, removing any air bubbles and confirming the pen is working correctly.
• Dosage Individualization: The exact dosage and injection schedule are determined by a healthcare professional based on the individual’s specific needs, blood sugar monitoring results, diet, and exercise routine.
• Injection Site Rotation: To prevent skin changes such as lipodystrophy (lumps or depressions), it is crucial to rotate injection sites within the chosen area.
• Never Share Pens or Needles: Each KwikPen is for single-patient use only. Sharing can lead to the transmission of blood-borne pathogens. Always use a new sterile needle for each injection.

Storage:

• Unopened KwikPens: Store in a refrigerator (2°C-8°C). Do not freeze. Do not use if it has been frozen.
• Opened (In-Use) KwikPens: Once a KwikPen is opened and in use, it can be kept at room temperature (below 30°C) for up to 10 days. Do not refrigerate an in-use pen. Keep the pen cap on to protect from light.
• Do Not Store with Needle Attached: Always remove the needle after each injection to prevent air from entering the pen and insulin leakage.

Potential Side Effects:

The most common and serious side effect is hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). Symptoms include:

• Sweating, cold sweat
• Shakiness, trembling
• Dizziness, lightheadedness, headache
• Confusion, irritability, nervousness
• Rapid heartbeat
• Hunger
• Blurred vision

It is crucial to be prepared to treat hypoglycemia immediately with a fast-acting source of sugar (e.g., glucose tablets, fruit juice, sugary candy).

Other common side effects may include:

• Injection site reactions (pain, redness, itching, swelling, bruising)
• Lipodystrophy (changes in skin thickness at injection sites)
• Weight gain
• Peripheral edema (swelling of hands and feet)

Warnings and Precautions:

• Monitor Blood Glucose: Regular blood glucose monitoring is essential to manage diabetes effectively and adjust insulin doses as needed.
• Interactions: Inform your doctor about all medications (prescription, over-the-counter, supplements) you are taking, as they can affect blood sugar levels and insulin requirements.
• Medical Supervision: Any changes to your insulin therapy should only be made under the close supervision of a healthcare professional.
• Alcohol Consumption: Alcohol can significantly affect blood sugar levels and increase the risk of hypoglycemia.
• Driving/Operating Machinery: Be cautious, as hypoglycemia can impair your ability to concentrate and react.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Discuss with your doctor if you are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding, as insulin needs may change.
• Hypokalemia: Insulin can cause a shift of potassium into cells, potentially leading to low blood potassium levels (hypokalemia), which can be serious.

HUMALOG MIX-50 KwikPen provides a convenient and effective way to manage diabetes, but strict adherence to medical advice, proper injection technique, and vigilant blood glucose monitoring are vital for optimal and safe outcomes.