HUMINSULIN NPH CARTRIDGE

Description

HUMINSULIN NPH Cartridge: An Intermediate-Acting Insulin for Sustained Blood Sugar Control

The HUMINSULIN NPH Cartridge contains Isophane Insulin Human, also known as NPH (Neutral Protamine Hagedorn) insulin. This is an intermediate-acting insulin designed to help manage blood glucose levels in individuals with Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes mellitus. Unlike rapid-acting insulins that cover immediate mealtime needs, NPH insulin provides a slower, more sustained release of insulin to control blood sugar between meals and overnight.

How NPH Insulin Works:

NPH insulin is a cloudy suspension where human insulin is combined with protamine. This protein forms a complex with insulin, which slows down its absorption from the injection site into the bloodstream. This extended absorption rate gives NPH its intermediate-acting profile:

• Onset of Action: Typically begins to work within 1 to 2 hours after injection.
• Peak Effect: Reaches its maximum effect between 6 and 12 hours after injection.
• Duration of Action: Can last for approximately 18 to 24 hours.

By providing this prolonged action, HUMINSULIN NPH helps to maintain stable blood sugar levels throughout the day and night, contributing to overall glycemic control. It is often prescribed as a “basal” insulin or in combination with short-acting insulins to cover both baseline and mealtime insulin needs.

Key Features and Benefits of HUMINSULIN NPH Cartridge:

• Sustained Blood Sugar Control: Provides a consistent level of insulin to manage glucose between meals and overnight.
• Versatile Use: Suitable for both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes.
• Cartridge Format: Designed for use with a reusable insulin pen device (e.g., HumaPen or other compatible pens), offering convenience and ease of use compared to drawing insulin from a vial with a syringe.
• Improved Glycemic Control: Helps to keep blood sugar levels within target ranges, thereby reducing the risk of long-term diabetes complications such as damage to the eyes, kidneys, nerves, and cardiovascular system.

Important Usage and Administration:

• Cartridge Compatibility: HUMINSULIN NPH cartridges are specifically designed for use with compatible insulin pen devices. Always ensure your pen device is suitable for these cartridges.
• Subcutaneous Injection: This insulin must be injected under the skin (subcutaneously) into areas such as the abdomen, thigh, upper arm, or buttocks. Never inject it directly into a vein (intravenously) or a muscle (intramuscularly).
• Thorough Mixing Before Each Use: As it is a suspension, the cartridge must be gently rolled between the palms at least 10 times and inverted 10 times immediately before every injection until the liquid becomes uniformly cloudy white or milky. Do not shake vigorously, as this can create frothing and affect dose accuracy.
• Priming the Pen: Before each injection, the pen should be primed (e.g., by dialing 1 or 2 units and expelling it into the air) to ensure proper insulin flow and remove any air bubbles.
• Timing of Injection: NPH insulin is typically administered at least 30 minutes before a meal, or as directed by your healthcare provider. This timing allows the insulin to begin working as glucose from the meal enters the bloodstream.
• Individualized Dosage: The exact dosage and injection schedule will be determined by your doctor based on your individual blood glucose monitoring results, diet, exercise routine, and overall treatment plan.
• Injection Site Rotation: To prevent skin changes like lipodystrophy (lumps or depressions), it is crucial to rotate injection sites regularly within the chosen injection area.
• Never Share: Insulin cartridges and pen needles are for single-patient use only. Sharing can lead to the transmission of infections and blood-borne pathogens. Always use a new, sterile needle for each injection.

Concentration:

HUMINSULIN NPH cartridges are typically 100 IU/ml (U-100), meaning 100 International Units of insulin per milliliter. This is the most common concentration for insulin pens and should be used with pen needles.

Storage:

• Unopened Cartridges: Should be stored in a refrigerator (2°C – 8°C). Do not freeze. Do not use if the insulin has been frozen.
• Opened (In-Use) Cartridges: Once a cartridge is inserted into a pen and in use, it should be kept at room temperature (below 30°C) and used within a specific timeframe (often up to 28 days or as per product instructions). 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 cartridge and insulin from leaking.
• Visual Inspection: Before each use, inspect the cartridge. After mixing, it should appear uniformly cloudy. Do not use if it looks clear, has solid particles, or appears frosted.

Potential Side Effects:

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

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

It is vital to recognize and treat hypoglycemia promptly by consuming a fast-acting source of sugar (e.g., glucose tablets, fruit juice, regular soda, or sugary candy).

Other possible side effects include:

• Injection site reactions: Pain, redness, itching, swelling, or bruising at the injection site.
• Lipodystrophy: Changes in the fatty tissue under the skin at injection sites (thickening or pitting) if sites are not rotated.
• Weight gain.
• Fluid retention (edema), particularly in the hands or feet.
• Allergic reactions: Rarely, severe generalized allergic reactions (e.g., widespread rash, difficulty breathing, wheezing, significant drop in blood pressure) can occur and require immediate medical attention.
• Hypokalemia (low blood potassium): Insulin can cause a shift of potassium into cells, potentially leading to low blood potassium levels.

Important Warnings and Precautions:

• Blood Glucose Monitoring: Regular and consistent monitoring of your blood glucose levels is essential to manage your diabetes effectively and adjust insulin doses as needed.
• Medical Supervision: Always use HUMINSULIN NPH under the guidance of a healthcare professional. Do not change your dose or type of insulin without consulting your doctor.
• Medication Interactions: Inform your doctor about all medications you are taking, as some drugs (including other diabetes medications, corticosteroids, thyroid hormones, certain pain killers, etc.) can affect blood sugar levels and may require insulin dose adjustments.
• Alcohol Consumption: Alcohol can significantly affect blood sugar levels and increase the risk of hypoglycemia.
• Driving/Operating Machinery: Be cautious if you experience symptoms of hypoglycemia, as your ability to concentrate and react may be impaired.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Consult your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, as insulin needs may change.

HUMINSULIN NPH Cartridge is a valuable component of diabetes management, but its safe and effective use relies on careful adherence to prescribed dosage, proper administration techniques, vigilant blood glucose monitoring, and regular consultation with your healthcare provider.