Humalog 75-25
PATIENT INFORMATION
10 mL Vial (1000 Units per vial)
HUMALOG® Mix75/25™
(75% insulin lispro protamine suspension and 25% insulin lispro injection (rDNA
ORIGIN))
100 UNITS PER ML (U-100)
THIS LILLY HUMAN INSULIN ANALOG MIXTURE IS DIFFERENT FROM OTHER INSULIN MIXTURES IN THAT ITS ONSET OF ACTION IS VERY QUICK. THE QUICK ONSET OF ACTION MEANS THAT YOU SHOULD TAKE YOUR DOSE OF HUMALOG® Mix75/25 [75% INSULIN LISPRO PROTAMINE SUSPENSION AND 25% INSULIN LISPRO INJECTION, (rDNA ORIGIN)] WITHIN 15 MINUTES BEFORE YOU EAT.
ANY CHANGE OF INSULIN SHOULD BE MADE CAUTIOUSLY AND ONLY UNDER MEDICAL SUPERVISION. CHANGES IN STRENGTH, MANUFACTURER, TYPE (E.G., REGULAR, NPH, ANALOG), SPECIES, OR METHOD OF MANUFACTURE MAY RESULT IN THE NEED FOR A CHANGE IN THE TIMING OR DOSAGE OF HUMALOG Mix75/25.
PATIENTS TAKING HUMALOG Mix75/25 MAY REQUIRE A CHANGE IN DOSAGE FROM THAT USED WITH OTHER INSULINS. IF AN ADJUSTMENT IS NEEDED, IT MAY OCCUR WITH THE FIRST DOSE OR DURING THE FIRST SEVERAL WEEKS OR MONTHS.
DIABETESInsulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas, a large gland that lies near the stomach. This hormone is necessary for the body's correct use of food, especially sugar. Diabetes occurs when the pancreas does not make enough insulin to meet your body's needs.
To control your diabetes, your doctor has prescribed injections of insulin products to keep your blood glucose at a near-normal level. You have been instructed to test your blood and/or your urine regularly for glucose. Studies have shown that some chronic complications of diabetes such as eye disease, kidney disease, and nerve disease can be significantly reduced if the blood sugar is maintained as close to normal as possible. The American Diabetes Association recommends that if your pre-meal glucose levels are consistently above 130 mg/dL, bedtime glucose levels are consistently above 160 mg/dL or your hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) is more than 7%, you should talk to your doctor. A change in your diabetes therapy may be needed. If your blood tests consistently show below-normal glucose levels, you should also let your doctor know. Proper control of your diabetes requires close and constant cooperation with your doctor. Despite diabetes, you can lead an active and healthy life if you eat a balanced diet, exercise regularly, and take your insulin injections as prescribed by your doctor.
Always keep an extra supply of insulin as well as a spare syringe and needle on hand. Always wear diabetic identification so that appropriate treatment can be given if complications occur away from home.
HUMALOG Mix75/25
Description
Humalog [insulin lispro injection, USP (rDNA origin)] is made by a special non-disease-producing laboratory strain of Escherichia coli bacteria that has been genetically altered to produce this human insulin analog. Humalog Mix75/25 is a mixture of 75% insulin lispro protamine suspension and 25% insulin lispro injection, (rDNA origin). It is a longer-acting insulin combined with the more rapid onset of action of Humalog. The duration of activity is similar to that of Humulin® 70/30 and may last up to 24 hours following injection. The time course of Humalog Mix75/25 action, like that of other insulins, may vary in different individuals or at different times in the same individual, based on dose, site of injection, blood supply, temperature, and physical activity. Humalog Mix75/25 is a sterile suspension and is for subcutaneous injection only. It should not be used intravenously. The concentration of Humalog Mix75/25 is 100 units/mL (U-100).
Humalog Mix75/25 starts lowering blood glucose more quickly than Regular human insulin, allowing for convenient dosing immediately before a meal (within 15 minutes). In contrast, mixtures containing Regular human insulin should be given 30 to 60 minutes before a meal.
Identification
Insulin lispro injection, USP (rDNA origin) from Eli Lilly and Company, has the trademark Humalog. Your doctor has prescribed the type of insulin that he/she believes is best for you.
DO NOT USE ANY OTHER INSULIN EXCEPT ON YOUR DOCTOR'S ADVICE AND DIRECTION. YOU SHOULD NOT MIX HUMALOG Mix75/25 WITH ANOTHER INSULIN.
Always check the carton and bottle label of the Humalog Mix75/25 you receive from your pharmacy to make sure it is the same as prescribed by your doctor.
Always check the appearance of your bottle of Humalog Mix75/25 before withdrawing each dose. Before each injection the Humalog Mix75/25 bottle must be carefully shaken or rotated several times to completely mix the insulin. Humalog Mix75/25 suspension should look uniformly cloudy or milky after mixing. If not, repeat the above step until contents are mixed.
Do not use Humalog Mix75/25:
- if the insulin substance (the white material) remains at the bottom of the bottle after mixing or
- if there are clumps in the insulin after mixing, or
- if solid white particles stick to the bottom or wall of the bottle, giving a frosted appearance.
If you see anything unusual in the appearance of Humalog Mix75/25 suspension in your bottle or notice your insulin requirements changing, talk to your doctor.
Storage
Not in-use (unopened): Humalog Mix75/25 bottles not in-use should be stored in a refrigerator, but not in the freezer.
In-use (opened): The Humalog Mix75/25 bottle you are currently using can be kept unrefrigerated, for up to 28 days, as long as it is kept at room temperature [below 86°F (30°C)] away from direct heat and light. The Humalog Mix75/25 bottle you are currently using must be discarded 28 days after the first use, even if it still contains Humalog Mix75/25.
Do not use Humalog Mix75/25 after the expiration date stamped on the label or if it has been frozen.
INSTRUCTIONS FOR INSULIN VIAL USE
Use with Syringes
NEVER SHARE NEEDLES AND SYRINGES.
Correct Syringe Type
Doses of insulin are measured in units. U-100 insulin contains 100 units/mL (1 mL=1 cc). With Humalog Mix75/25, it is important to use a syringe that is marked for U-100 insulin preparations. Failure to use the proper syringe can lead to a mistake in dosage, causing serious problems for you, such as a blood glucose level that is too low or too high.
Syringe Use
To help avoid contamination and possible infection, follow these instructions exactly.
Disposable syringes and needles should be used only once and then discarded by placing the used needle in a puncture-resistant disposable container. Properly dispose of the puncture-resistant container as directed by your Health Care Professional.
Preparing the Dose
- Wash your hands.
- Carefully shake or rotate the bottle of insulin several times to completely mix the insulin.
- Inspect the insulin. Humalog Mix75/25 suspension should look uniformly cloudy or milky. Do not use Humalog Mix75/25 if you notice anything unusual in its appearance.
- If using a new Humalog Mix75/25 bottle, flip off the plastic protective cap, but do not remove the stopper. Wipe the top of the bottle with an alcohol swab.
- Draw an amount of air into the syringe that is equal to the Humalog Mix75/25 dose. Put the needle through rubber top of the Humalog Mix75/25 bottle and inject the air into the bottle.
- Turn the Humalog Mix75/25 bottle and syringe upside down. Hold the bottle and syringe firmly in one hand and shake gently.
- Making sure the tip of the needle is in the Humalog Mix75/25 suspension, withdraw the correct dose of Humalog Mix75/25 into the syringe.
- Before removing the needle from the Humalog Mix75/25 bottle, check the syringe for air bubbles. If bubbles are present, hold the syringe straight up and tap its side until the bubbles float to the top. Push the bubbles out with the plunger and then withdraw the correct dose.
- Remove the needle from the bottle and lay the syringe down so that the needle does not touch anything.
Injection Instructions
- To avoid tissue damage, choose a site for each injection that is at least ½ inch from the previous injection site. The usual sites of injection are abdomen, thighs, and arms.
- Cleanse the skin with alcohol where the injection is to be made.
- With one hand, stabilize the skin by spreading it or pinching up a large area.
- Insert the needle as instructed by your doctor.
- Push the plunger in as far as it will go.
- Pull the needle out and apply gentle pressure over the injection site for several seconds. Do not rub the area.
- Place the used needle in a puncture-resistant disposable container and properly dispose of the puncture-resistant container as directed by your Health Care Professional.
Dosage
Your doctor has told you which insulin to use, how much, and when and how often to inject it. Because each patient's diabetes is different, this schedule has been individualized for you. Your usual dose of Humalog Mix75/25 may be affected by changes in your diet, activity, or work schedule. Carefully follow your doctor's instructions to allow for these changes. Other things that may affect your Humalog Mix75/25 dose are:
Illness
Illness, especially with nausea and vomiting, may cause your insulin requirements to change. Even if you are not eating, you will still require insulin. You and your doctor should establish a sick day plan for you to use in case of illness. When you are sick, test your blood glucose frequently. If instructed by your doctor, test your ketones and report the results to your doctor.
Pregnancy
Good control of diabetes is especially important for you and your unborn baby. Pregnancy may make managing your diabetes more difficult. If you are planning to have a baby, are pregnant, or are nursing a baby, talk to your doctor. Humalog Mix75/25 has not been tested in pregnant or nursing women.
Medication
Insulin requirements may be increased if you are taking other drugs with blood-glucose-raising activity, such as oral contraceptives, corticosteroids, or thyroid replacement therapy. Insulin requirements may be reduced in the presence of drugs with blood-glucose-lowering activity, such as oral antidiabetic agents, salicylates (for example, aspirin), sulfa antibiotics, alcohol, certain antidepressants and some kidney and blood pressure medicines. Your Health Care Professional may be aware of these and other medications that may affect your diabetes control. Therefore, always discuss any medications you are taking with your doctor.
Exercise
Exercise may lower your body's need for insulin during and for some time after the physical activity. Exercise may also speed up the effect of an insulin dose, especially if the exercise involves the area of injection site (for example, the leg should not be used for injection just prior to running). Discuss with your doctor how you should adjust your insulin regimen to accommodate exercise.
Travel
When traveling across more than 2 time zones, you should talk to your doctor concerning adjustments in your insulin schedule.
COMMON PROBLEMS OF DIABETES
Hypoglycemia (Low Blood Sugar)
Hypoglycemia (too little glucose in the blood) is one of the most frequent adverse events experienced by insulin users. It can be brought about by:
- Missing or delaying meals.
- Taking too much insulin.
- Exercising or working more than usual.
- An infection or illness associated with diarrhea or vomiting.
- A change in the body's need for insulin.
- Diseases of the adrenal, pituitary, or thyroid gland, or progression of kidney or liver disease.
- Interactions with other drugs that lower blood glucose, such as oral antidiabetic agents, salicylates (for example, aspirin), sulfa antibiotics, certain antidepressants and some kidney and blood pressure medicines.
- Consumption of alcoholic beverages.
Symptoms of mild to moderate hypoglycemia may occur suddenly and can include:
| • sweating • dizziness • palpitation • tremor • hunger • restlessness • tingling in the hands, feet, lips, or tongue • lightheadedness • inability to concentrate • headache |
• drowsiness • sleep disturbances • anxiety • blurred vision • slurred speech • depressed mood • irritability • abnormal behavior • unsteady movement • personality changes |
| Signs of severe hypoglycemia can include: | |
|
• seizures • death |
Therefore, it is important that assistance be obtained immediately.
Early warning symptoms of hypoglycemia may be different or less pronounced under certain conditions, such as long duration of diabetes, diabetic nerve disease, use of medications such as beta-blockers, changing insulin preparations, or intensified control (3 or more injections per day) of diabetes. A few patients who have experienced hypoglycemic reactions after transfer from animal-source insulin to human insulin have reported that the early warning symptoms of hypoglycemia were less pronounced or different from those experienced with their previous insulin.
Without recognition of early warning symptoms, you may not be able to take steps to avoid more serious hypoglycemia. Be alert for all of the various types of symptoms that may indicate hypoglycemia. Patients who experience hypoglycemia without early warning symptoms should monitor their blood glucose frequently, especially prior to activities such as driving. If the blood glucose is below your normal fasting glucose, you should consider eating or drinking sugar-containing foods to treat your hypoglycemia.
Mild to moderate hypoglycemia may be treated by eating foods or drinks that contain sugar. Patients should always carry a quick source of sugar, such as hard candy or glucose tablets. More severe hypoglycemia may require the assistance of another person. Patients who are unable to take sugar orally or who are unconscious require an injection of glucagon or should be treated with intravenous administration of glucose at a medical facility.
You should learn to recognize your own symptoms of hypoglycemia. If you are uncertain about these symptoms, you should monitor your blood glucose frequently to help you learn to recognize the symptoms that you experience with hypoglycemia.
If you have frequent episodes of hypoglycemia or experience difficulty in recognizing the symptoms, you should talk to your doctor to discuss possible changes in therapy, meal plans, and/or exercise programs to help you avoid hypoglycemia.
Hyperglycemia (High Blood Sugar) and Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA)
Hyperglycemia (too much glucose in the blood) may develop if your body has too little insulin. Hyperglycemia can be brought about by any of the following:
- Omitting your insulin or taking less than your doctor has prescribed.
- Eating significantly more than your meal plan suggests.
- Developing a fever, infection, or other significant stressful situation.
In patients with type 1 or insulin-dependent diabetes, prolonged hyperglycemia can result in DKA (a life-threatening emergency). The first symptoms of DKA usually come on gradually, over a period of hours or days, and include a drowsy feeling, flushed face, thirst, loss of appetite, and fruity odor on the breath. With DKA, blood and urine tests show large amounts of glucose and ketones. Heavy breathing and a rapid pulse are more severe symptoms. If uncorrected, prolonged hyperglycemia or DKA can lead to nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, dehydration, loss of consciousness, or death. Therefore, it is important that you obtain medical assistance immediately.
Lipodystrophy
Rarely, administration of insulin subcutaneously can result in lipoatrophy (seen as an apparent depression of the skin) or lipohypertrophy (seen as a raised area of the skin). If you notice either of these conditions, talk to your doctor. A change in your injection technique may help alleviate the problem.
Allergy
Local Allergy — Patients occasionally experience redness, swelling, and itching at the site of injection. This condition, called local allergy, usually clears up in a few days to a few weeks. In some instances, this condition may be related to factors other than insulin, such as irritants in the skin cleansing agent or poor injection technique. If you have local reactions, talk to your doctor.
Systemic Allergy — Less common, but potentially more serious, is generalized allergy to insulin, which may cause rash over the whole body, shortness of breath, wheezing, reduction in blood pressure, fast pulse, or sweating. Severe cases of generalized allergy may be life threatening. If you think you are having a generalized allergic reaction, call your doctor immediately.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Information about diabetes may be obtained from your diabetes educator.
Additional information about diabetes and Humalog Mix75/25 can be obtained by calling The Lilly Answers Center at 1-800-LillyRx (1-800-545-5979) or by visiting www.LillyDiabetes.com.
Vials manufactured by : Eli Lilly and Company, Indianapolis, IN 46285, USA or Lilly France, F-67640 Fegersheim, France for Eli Lilly and Company, Indianapolis, IN 46285, USA
INFORMATION FOR THE PATIENT
3 ML DISPOSABLE INSULIN DELIVERY DEVICE
HUMALOG® Mix75/25™ Pen
75% INSULIN LISPRO PROTAMINE SUSPENSION AND 25% INSULIN LISPRO INJECTION (rDNA
ORIGIN)
100 UNITS PER ML (U-100)
THIS LILLY HUMAN INSULIN ANALOG MIXTURE IS DIFFERENT FROM OTHER INSULIN MIXTURES IN THAT ITS ONSET OF ACTION IS VERY QUICK. THE QUICK ONSET OF ACTION MEANS THAT YOU SHOULD TAKE YOUR DOSE OF HUMALOG® Mix75/25TM [75% INSULIN LISPRO PROTAMINE SUSPENSION AND 25% INSULIN LISPRO INJECTION, (rDNA ORIGIN)] WITHIN 15 MINUTES BEFORE YOU EAT.
ANY CHANGE OF INSULIN SHOULD BE MADE CAUTIOUSLY AND ONLY UNDER MEDICAL SUPERVISION. CHANGES IN STRENGTH, MANUFACTURER, TYPE (E.G., REGULAR, NPH, ANALOG), SPECIES, OR METHOD OF MANUFACTURE MAY RESULT IN THE NEED FOR A CHANGE IN THE TIMING OR DOSAGE OF HUMALOG Mix75/25.
PATIENTS TAKING HUMALOG Mix75/25 MAY REQUIRE A CHANGE IN DOSAGE FROM THAT USED WITH OTHER INSULINS. IF AN ADJUSTMENT IS NEEDED, IT MAY OCCUR WITH THE FIRST DOSE OR DURING THE FIRST SEVERAL WEEKS OR MONTHS.
TO OBTAIN AN ACCURATE DOSE, CAREFULLY READ AND FOLLOW THE INSULIN DELIVERY DEVICE USER MANUAL AND THIS “INFORMATION FOR THE PATIENT” INSERT BEFORE USING THIS PRODUCT.
BEFORE EACH INJECTION, YOU SHOULD PRIME THE PEN, A NECESSARY STEP TO MAKE SURE THE PEN IS READY TO DOSE. PRIMING THE PEN IS IMPORTANT TO CONFIRM THAT INSULIN COMES OUT WHEN YOU PUSH THE INJECTION BUTTON AND TO REMOVE AIR THAT MAY COLLECT IN THE INSULIN CARTRIDGE DURING NORMAL USE. IF YOU DO NOT PRIME, YOU MAY RECEIVE TOO MUCH OR TOO LITTLE INSULIN (see also INSTRUCTIONS FOR INSULIN PEN USE section).
DIABETES
Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas, a large gland that lies near the stomach. This hormone is necessary for the body's correct use of food, especially sugar. Diabetes occurs when the pancreas does not make enough insulin to meet your body's needs.
To control your diabetes, your doctor has prescribed injections of insulin products to keep your blood glucose at a near-normal level. You have been instructed to test your blood and/or your urine regularly for glucose. Studies have shown that some chronic complications of diabetes such as eye disease, kidney disease, and nerve disease can be significantly reduced if the blood sugar is maintained as close to normal as possible. The American Diabetes Association recommends that if your pre-meal glucose levels are consistently above 130 mg/dL, bedtime glucose levels are consistently above 160 mg/dL or your hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) is more than 7%, you should talk to your doctor. A change in your diabetes therapy may be needed. If your blood tests consistently show below-normal glucose levels, you should also let your doctor know. Proper control of your diabetes requires close and constant cooperation with your doctor. Despite diabetes, you can lead an active and healthy life if you eat a balanced diet, exercise regularly, and take your insulin injections as prescribed by your doctor.
Always keep an extra supply of insulin as well as a spare syringe and needle on hand. Always wear diabetic identification so that appropriate treatment can be given if complications occur away from home.
HUMALOG Mix75/25
DESCRIPTION
Humalog [insulin lispro injection, USP (rDNA origin)] is made by a special non-disease-producing laboratory strain of Escherichia coli bacteria that has been genetically altered to produce this human insulin analog. Humalog Mix75/25 is a mixture of 75% insulin lispro protamine suspension and 25% insulin lispro injection (rDNA origin). It is a longer-acting insulin combined with the more rapid onset of action of Humalog. The duration of activity is similar to that of Humulin® 70/30 and may last up to 24 hours following injection. The time course of Humalog Mix75/25 action, like that of other insulins, may vary in different individuals or at different times in the same individual, based on dose, site of injection, blood supply, temperature, and physical activity. Humalog Mix75/25 is a sterile suspension and is for subcutaneous injection only. It should not be used intravenously. The concentration of Humalog Mix75/25 is 100 units/mL (U-100).
Humalog Mix75/25 starts lowering blood glucose more quickly than Regular human insulin, allowing for convenient dosing immediately before a meal (within 15 minutes). In contrast, mixtures containing Regular human insulin should be given 30 to 60 minutes before a meal.
Identification
Insulin lispro injection, USP (rDNA origin) from Eli Lilly and Company, has the trademark Humalog. Your doctor has prescribed the type of insulin that he/she believes is best for you.
DO NOT USE ANY OTHER INSULIN EXCEPT ON YOUR DOCTOR'S ADVICE AND DIRECTION. YOU SHOULD NOT MIX HUMALOG Mix75/25 WITH ANOTHER INSULIN.
The Humalog Mix75/25 Pen is available in boxes of 5 disposable insulin delivery devices (“insulin Pens”). The Humalog Mix75/25 Pen is not designed to allow any other insulin to be mixed in its cartridge, or for the cartridge to be removed.
Always check the carton and Pen label of the Humalog Mix75/25 you receive from your pharmacy to make sure it is the same as prescribed by your doctor.
Always check the appearance of Humalog Mix75/25 suspension in your insulin Pen before using. A cartridge of Humalog Mix75/25 contains a small glass bead to assist in mixing. Roll the Pen between the palms 10 times (see Figure 1). Holding the Pen by one end, invert it 180°slowly 10 times to allow the small glass bead to travel the full length of the cartridge with each inversion (see Figure 2).
|
Humalog Mix75/25 suspension should look uniformly cloudy or milky after mixing. If not, repeat the above steps until contents are mixed. Pens containing Humalog Mix75/25 suspension should be examined frequently.
Do not use Humalog Mix75/25:
- if the insulin substance (the white material) remains visibly separated from the liquid after mixing or
- if there are clumps in the insulin after mixing, or
- if solid white particles stick to the bottom or wall of the cartridge, giving a frosted appearance.
If you see anything unusual in the appearance of the Humalog Mix75/25 suspension in your Pen or notice your insulin requirements changing, talk to your doctor.
Never attempt to remove the cartridge from the Humalog Mix75/25 Pen. Inspect the cartridge through the clear cartridge holder.
Storage
Not in-use (unopened): Humalog Mix75/25 Pens not in-use should be stored in a refrigerator, but not in the freezer.
In-use (opened): Humalog Mix75/25 Pens in-use should NOT be refrigerated but should be kept at room temperature [below 86°F (30°C)] away from direct heat and light. The Humalog Mix75/25 Pen you are currently using must be discarded 10 days after the first use, even if it still contains Humalog Mix75/25.
Do not use Humalog Mix75/25 after the expiration date stamped on the label or if it has been frozen.
INSTRUCTIONS FOR INSULIN PEN USE
It is important to read, understand, and follow the instructions in the Insulin Delivery Device User Manual before using. Failure to follow instructions may result in getting too much or too little insulin. The needle must be changed and the Pen must be primed before each injection to make sure the Pen is ready to dose. Performing these steps before each injection is important to confirm that insulin comes out when you push the injection button, and to remove air that may collect in the insulin cartridge during normal use.
Every time you inject:
- Use a new needle.
- Prime to make sure the Pen is ready to dose.
- Make sure you got your full dose.
NEVER SHARE INSULIN PENS, CARTRIDGES, OR NEEDLES. PREPARING FOR INJECTION
- Wash your hands.
- To avoid tissue damage, choose a site for each injection that is at least ½ inch from the previous injection site. The usual sites of injection are abdomen, thighs, and arms.
- Follow the instructions in your Insulin Delivery Device User Manual to prepare for injection.
- After injecting the dose, pull the needle out and apply gentle pressure over the injection site for several seconds. Do not rub the area.
- After the injection, remove the needle from the Humalog Mix75/25 Pen. Do not reuse needles.
- Place the used needle in a puncture-resistant disposable container and properly dispose of the puncture-resistant container as directed by your Health Care Professional.
DOSAGE
Your doctor has told you which insulin to use, how much, and when and how often to inject it. Because each patient's diabetes is different, this schedule has been individualized for you. Your usual dose of Humalog Mix75/25 may be affected by changes in your diet, activity, or work schedule. Carefully follow your doctor's instructions to allow for these changes. Other things that may affect your Humalog Mix75/25 dose are:
Illness
Illness, especially with nausea and vomiting, may cause your insulin requirements to change. Even if you are not eating, you will still require insulin. You and your doctor should establish a sick day plan for you to use in case of illness. When you are sick, test your blood glucose frequently. If instructed by your doctor, test your ketones and report the results to your doctor.
Pregnancy
Good control of diabetes is especially important for you and your unborn baby. Pregnancy may make managing your diabetes more difficult. If you are planning to have a baby, are pregnant, or are nursing a baby, talk to your doctor. Humalog Mix75/25 has not been tested in pregnant or nursing women.
Medication
Insulin requirements may be increased if you are taking other drugs with blood-glucose-raising activity, such as oral contraceptives, corticosteroids, or thyroid replacement therapy. Insulin requirements may be reduced in the presence of drugs with blood-glucose-lowering activity, such as oral antidiabetic agents, salicylates (for example, aspirin), sulfa antibiotics, alcohol, certain antidepressants and some kidney and blood pressure medicines. Your Health Care Professional may be aware of these and other medications that may affect your diabetes control. Therefore, always discuss any medications you are taking with your doctor.
Exercise
Exercise may lower your body's need for insulin during and for some time after the physical activity. Exercise may also speed up the effect of an insulin dose, especially if the exercise involves the area of injection site (for example, the leg should not be used for injection just prior to running). Discuss with your doctor how you should adjust your insulin regimen to accommodate exercise.
Travel
When traveling across more than 2 time zones, you should talk to your doctor concerning adjustments in your insulin schedule.
COMMON PROBLEMS OF DIABETES
Hypoglycemia (Low Blood Sugar)
Hypoglycemia (too little glucose in the blood) is one of the most frequent adverse events experienced by insulin users. It can be brought about by:
- Missing or delaying meals.
- Taking too much insulin.
- Exercising or working more than usual.
- An infection or illness associated with diarrhea or vomiting.
- A change in the body's need for insulin.
- Diseases of the adrenal, pituitary, or thyroid gland, or progression of kidney or liver disease.
- Interactions with other drugs that lower blood glucose, such as oral antidiabetic agents, salicylates (for example, aspirin), sulfa antibiotics, certain antidepressants and some kidney and blood pressure medicines.
- Consumption of alcoholic beverages.
Symptoms of mild to moderate hypoglycemia may occur suddenly and can include:
| • sweating • dizziness • palpitation • tremor • hunger • restlessness • tingling in the hands, feet, lips, or tongue • lightheadedness • inability to concentrate • headache Signs of severe hypoglycemia can include: |
• drowsiness • sleep disturbances • anxiety • blurred vision • slurred speech • depressed mood • irritability • abnormal behavior • unsteady movement • personality changes |
| Signs of severe hypoglycemia can include: | |
| • disorientation • unconsciousness |
• seizures • death |
Therefore, it is important that assistance be obtained immediately.
Early warning symptoms of hypoglycemia may be different or less pronounced under certain conditions, such as long duration of diabetes, diabetic nerve disease, use of medications such as beta-blockers, changing insulin preparations, or intensified control (3 or more injections per day) of diabetes. A few patients who have experienced hypoglycemic reactions after transfer from animal-source insulin to human insulin have reported that the early warning symptoms of hypoglycemia were less pronounced or different from those experienced with their previous insulin.
Without recognition of early warning symptoms, you may not be able to take steps to avoid more serious hypoglycemia. Be alert for all of the various types of symptoms that may indicate hypoglycemia. Patients who experience hypoglycemia without early warning symptoms should monitor their blood glucose frequently, especially prior to activities such as driving. If the blood glucose is below your normal fasting glucose, you should consider eating or drinking sugar-containing foods to treat your hypoglycemia.
Mild to moderate hypoglycemia may be treated by eating foods or drinks that contain sugar. Patients should always carry a quick source of sugar, such as hard candy or glucose tablets. More severe hypoglycemia may require the assistance of another person. Patients who are unable to take sugar orally or who are unconscious require an injection of glucagon or should be treated with intravenous administration of glucose at a medical facility.
You should learn to recognize your own symptoms of hypoglycemia. If you are uncertain about these symptoms, you should monitor your blood glucose frequently to help you learn to recognize the symptoms that you experience with hypoglycemia.
If you have frequent episodes of hypoglycemia or experience difficulty in recognizing the symptoms, you should talk to your doctor to discuss possible changes in therapy, meal plans, and/or exercise programs to help you avoid hypoglycemia.
Hyperglycemia (High Blood Sugar) and Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA)
Hyperglycemia (too much glucose in the blood) may develop if your body has too little insulin. Hyperglycemia can be brought about by any of the following:
Omitting your insulin or taking less than your doctor has prescribed.
Eating significantly more than your meal plan suggests.
Developing a fever, infection, or other significant stressful situation.
In patients with type 1 or insulin-dependent diabetes, prolonged hyperglycemia can result in DKA (a life-threatening emergency). The first symptoms of DKA usually come on gradually, over a period of hours or days, and include a drowsy feeling, flushed face, thirst, loss of appetite, and fruity odor on the breath. With DKA, blood and urine tests show large amounts of glucose and ketones. Heavy breathing and a rapid pulse are more severe symptoms. If uncorrected, prolonged hyperglycemia or DKA can lead to nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, dehydration, loss of consciousness, or death. Therefore, it is important that you obtain medical assistance immediately.
Lipodystrophy
Rarely, administration of insulin subcutaneously can result in lipoatrophy (seen as an apparent depression of the skin) or lipohypertrophy (seen as a raised area of the skin). If you notice either of these conditions, talk to your doctor. A change in your injection technique may help alleviate the problem.
Allergy
Local Allergy — Patients occasionally experience redness, swelling, and itching at the site of injection. This condition, called local allergy, usually clears up in a few days to a few weeks. In some instances, this condition may be related to factors other than insulin, such as irritants in the skin cleansing agent or poor injection technique. If you have local reactions, talk to your doctor.
Systemic Allergy — Less common, but potentially more serious, is generalized allergy to insulin, which may cause rash over the whole body, shortness of breath, wheezing, reduction in blood pressure, fast pulse, or sweating. Severe cases of generalized allergy may be life threatening. If you think you are having a generalized allergic reaction, call your doctor immediately.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Information about diabetes may be obtained from your diabetes educator.
Additional information about diabetes and Humalog Mix75/25 can be obtained by calling The Lilly Answers Center at 1-800-LillyRx (1-800-545-5979) or by visiting www.LillyDiabetes.com.
Generic Name: 75-25 Insulin Lispro Suspension and 25 Insulin Lispro Injection
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