NOVOMIX-30 PENFIL (100IU/ML)

Description

NOVOMIX-30 PENFIL (100IU/ML) is a biphasic insulin preparation containing two types of insulin aspart:

• 30% Soluble Insulin Aspart: This is a rapid-acting insulin analogue. It starts working quickly (within 10-20 minutes) to cover blood sugar spikes after meals.
• 70% Protamine-Crystallised Insulin Aspart: This is an intermediate-acting insulin analogue. It has a slower onset and a longer duration, providing sustained blood sugar control between meals and overnight.

The “100IU/ML” means it contains 100 International Units of insulin per milliliter of suspension. The “PENFIL” indicates it comes in a cartridge designed for use with specific reusable insulin pen devices (e.g., Novo Nordisk’s FlexPen).

What it’s used for:

• Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: NovoMix-30 Penfill is prescribed for adults, adolescents, and children aged 10 years and above (with limited experience in children aged 6-9 years) to improve overall blood sugar control. It’s often used when a patient needs both rapid mealtime coverage and a longer-acting basal effect from a single injection.

How it works:

• The rapid-acting component (insulin aspart) quickly helps glucose enter cells after a meal, preventing post-meal blood sugar spikes.
• The intermediate-acting component (protamine-crystallised insulin aspart) provides a sustained release of insulin, managing blood sugar levels between meals and during fasting periods. This combination aims to more closely mimic the body’s natural insulin release pattern.

Administration:

• Penfill Cartridge: This cartridge is inserted into a compatible reusable insulin pen device.
• Subcutaneous Injection: It is injected under the skin (subcutaneously) into areas like the abdomen, thigh, upper arm, or buttocks.
• Timing: It is typically injected within 15 minutes before a meal, or in some cases for Type 2 diabetes, even immediately after starting a meal. It’s crucial to eat a meal or snack containing carbohydrates soon after injection to prevent low blood sugar.
• Mixing Before Use: As it’s a suspension, the cartridge must be gently rolled and inverted several times (e.g., 10 times) before each injection until the liquid appears uniformly cloudy or milky. Do not shake vigorously.
• Rotation of Injection Sites: Always rotate injection sites within the chosen area to prevent lipodystrophy (skin thickening or pitting) and ensure consistent absorption.
• Do NOT Share: Insulin pens are for single-patient use only. Never share pens, even if the needle is changed, due to the risk of infection.
• Do NOT Dilute or Mix: This formulation should not be diluted or mixed with other insulins. It is not for intravenous administration or for use in insulin pumps.

Important Considerations and Side Effects:

• Hypoglycemia (Low Blood Sugar): This is the most common and serious side effect. Symptoms include sweating, shakiness, confusion, headache, dizziness, and hunger. Patients must monitor blood sugar regularly and carry a source of fast-acting sugar to treat hypoglycemia immediately. The risk is higher if meals are delayed or missed after injection.
• Weight Gain: A common side effect of insulin therapy.
• Injection Site Reactions: Pain, redness, swelling, itching, or lumps at the injection site are common. Rotating sites helps minimize these.
• Allergic Reactions: Rare but potentially severe allergic reactions can occur.
• Alcohol Consumption: Alcohol can significantly affect blood sugar levels and should be consumed with caution or avoided as advised by your doctor.
• Storage: Unopened cartridges should be refrigerated (2°C-8°C). Once opened and in use, they can typically be stored at room temperature (check the specific product leaflet, usually below 30°C for up to 28 days). Do not freeze.

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