HUMAN MIXTARD-30 VIAL (40 IU/ML)

Description

HUMAN MIXTARD-30 VIAL (40 IU/ML) is a type of biphasic insulin used to manage diabetes mellitus. It’s a combination of two forms of human insulin:

• 30% Soluble Human Insulin: This is a short-acting insulin, meaning it starts working relatively quickly (within 30 minutes) to cover blood sugar rises after meals.
• 70% Isophane Human Insulin (NPH): This is an intermediate-acting insulin, providing a more prolonged effect to manage blood sugar levels between meals and overnight.

The “40 IU/ML” indicates its concentration – 40 International Units of insulin per milliliter of suspension.

What it’s used for:

• Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: It’s prescribed for individuals with both types of diabetes to achieve comprehensive blood sugar control throughout the day, mimicking the body’s natural insulin release.

How it works:

• The soluble insulin component rapidly lowers blood sugar after injections (especially when given before meals).
• The isophane insulin component provides a sustained effect, helping to keep blood sugar stable over a longer period.

Administration:

• Vial: It comes in a vial, which means it needs to be drawn into an insulin syringe for injection. It’s crucial to use an insulin syringe with a corresponding unit scale (e.g., U-40 syringe for 40 IU/ML insulin).
• Subcutaneous Injection: It’s injected under the skin (subcutaneously) into areas like the thigh, abdominal wall, buttocks, or upper arm. Injection sites should always be rotated to prevent skin issues.
• Timing: Typically injected 30 minutes before a meal, usually once or twice daily, as determined by a healthcare provider. After injection, a meal or snack containing carbohydrates should be consumed within 30 minutes.
• Mixing Before Use: As it’s a suspension, the vial must be gently rolled and inverted (e.g., 10 times each) before each use to ensure the two insulin components are evenly mixed and the suspension appears uniformly cloudy. Do not shake vigorously.
• Not for IV or Pumps: This insulin is generally not for intravenous administration or use in insulin pumps.

Important Considerations and Side Effects:

• Hypoglycemia (Low Blood Sugar): This is the most common side effect. Symptoms include sweating, clammy skin, anxiety, fast heartbeat, dizziness, confusion, headache, blurred vision, shakiness, and hunger. Patients should monitor blood sugar levels regularly and carry a fast-acting sugar source to treat hypoglycemia.
• Injection Site Reactions: Pain, redness, swelling, itching, or lumps at the injection site can occur. Rotating injection sites helps.
• Weight Gain: A common side effect of insulin therapy.
• Allergic Reactions: Rare but possible.
• Alcohol Consumption: Alcohol can significantly affect blood sugar levels and should be consumed with caution or avoided as advised by a doctor.
• Storage: Unopened vials should be refrigerated (2°C-8°C). Once opened, they can usually be stored at room temperature (below 30°C or 25°C, check product leaflet) for a limited period (e.g., up to 4-6 weeks). Do not freeze.

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