Apidra (Insulin Glulisine [rDNA origin] Inj) Drug Information: Overdosage and Contraindications

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May 24, 2012

Apidra

Diabetes Prescription Insulin Medications »

What is the diabetes medication insulin and how does it work?

Insulin is a hormone that is produced by certain cells in the pancreas called beta cells. Insulin helps the body use blood glucose (a type of sugar) for energy. When we eat and absorb food, glucose levels rise and insulin is released.

Some people can't make insulin; those people are said to have type 1 diabetes. A person with type 2 diabetes can make insulin, but the body doesn't respond well to insulin; they are said to have “insulin resistance.”

For what conditions is the diabetes medication insulin used?

Insulin is always necessary for type 1 diabetes because the body has no internal source of insulin. People with type 2 diabetes may also need insulin, particularly those who have difficulty controlling their diabetes with oral medications.

Are there differences among types of insulin?

Insulins differ based on three ...

Read the Diabetes Prescription Insulin Medications article »

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OVERDOSE

Excess insulin may cause hypoglycemia and, particularly when given intravenously, hypokalemia. Mild episodes of hypoglycemia usually can be treated with oral glucose.

Adjustments in drug dosage, meal patterns, or exercise may be needed. More severe episodes of hypoglycemia with coma, seizure, or neurologic impairment may be treated with intramuscular/subcutaneous glucagon or concentrated intravenous glucose. Sustained carbohydrate intake and observation may be necessary because hypoglycemia may recur after apparent clinical recovery. Hypokalemia must be corrected appropriately.

CONTRAINDICATIONS

APIDRA (insulin glulisine [rdna origin] inj) is contraindicated:

during episodes of hypoglycemia
in patients who are hypersensitive to APIDRA (insulin glulisine [rdna origin] inj) or to any of its excipients When used in patients with known hypersensitivity to APIDRA (insulin glulisine [rdna origin] inj) or its excipients, patients may develop localized or generalized hypersensitivity reactions [See ADVERSE REACTIONS].

Last reviewed on RxList: 12/9/2008
This monograph has been modified to include the generic and brand name in many instances.