Actrapid 100 IU/ml Flexpen

By Actrapid

Rx

3ml Solution for Injection in a Flexpen

Composition icon

Composition

Human insulin(100IU)

Manufacturer - Novo Nordisk India Pvt Ltd icon

Manufacturer - Novo Nordisk India Pvt Ltd

Plot No.32, 47-50, EPIP Area, Whitefield, Bangalore - 560 066

Expires on or after icon

Expires on or after

October, 2025

Benefits

The Actrapid 100 IU/ml Flexpen is a type of insulin used in diabetes management to help regulate blood sugar levels effectively. By mimicking the function of natural insulin in the body, it aids in transporting glucose to muscle and fat cells for energy production, while also reducing glucose production in the liver. This results in lowering blood sugar levels, which in turn helps to minimize the risk of serious complications associated with diabetes, such as kidney damage, eye problems, nerve issues, and even the potential loss of limbs. The fast-acting nature of Actrapid 100 IU/ml Flexpen ensures rapid and consistent sugar control, especially after meals, preventing severe spikes in blood sugar levels. By promoting sugar uptake in muscle and fat cells and inhibiting liver sugar production, this insulin helps to improve glycaemic control, reducing the likelihood of diabetes-related complications like retinopathy, nephropathy, neuropathy, delayed wound healing, and diabetic foot ulcers. Additionally, Actrapid 100 IU/ml Flexpen can be safely used by pregnant and lactating women with diabetes. For optimal results, it is crucial to follow proper administration techniques, stick to a regular schedule, maintain a balanced diet, and engage in regular physical activity to lead a healthy and normal life while managing diabetes effectively.


How to use the Actrapid 100 IU/ml Flexpen

To use Actrapid 100 IU/ml Flexpen properly, follow these steps as advised by your doctor or nurse. Administer the injection 5-10 minutes before your meal subcutaneously, into your abdomen or thigh. This can also be given intravenously with a 0.9% sodium chloride infusion. Injecting in the abdomen region allows for quicker absorption. Typically, Actrapid 100 IU/ml Flexpen is given once or twice daily when both rapid and prolonged insulin effects are needed. The initial dose usually ranges between 0.3 and 1.0 IU/kg per day. After injecting, make sure to have a meal or snack containing carbohydrates within 30 minutes. If you are self-administering and unsure, seek help from a healthcare professional.


For self-injecting insulin, start by washing your hands and preparing the insulin bottle. Pull the syringe plunger to the correct unit number prescribed by your doctor. Insert the needle into the bottle, fill the syringe, and choose an injection site on your skin. Pinch the skin, inject the needle, wait 6 seconds, and then remove the needle. Safely dispose of the syringe and then have your meal or snack. Remember, it's essential to use Actrapid 100 IU/ml Flexpen exactly as directed by your healthcare provider. Whether using injections, pre-filled syringes, or insulin pens, follow your doctor's instructions carefully. Do not mix Actrapid 100 IU/ml Flexpen with any other insulin without consulting your doctor, and never stop the therapy abruptly without medical advice.


Uses of Actrapid 100 IU/ml Flexpen

The Actrapid 100 IU/ml Flexpen is designed to help patients with diabetes, specifically those with Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes mellitus, in managing their blood sugar levels. By improving glycaemic control, this device assists individuals with diabetes in effectively monitoring and regulating their condition. It is a valuable tool for patients seeking to better manage their diabetes to maintain their overall health.


What conditions Actrapid 100 IU/ml Flexpen treats?

Diabetes is a long-lasting disease where the body has trouble using insulin, a hormone managing blood sugar levels. It results in high blood glucose levels and comes in two forms: type-1 and type-2. Type-1 diabetes occurs when the pancreas doesn't produce enough insulin, while type-2 impacts how the body handles sugar. Common symptoms include fatigue, frequent urination, thirst, dry mouth, blurred vision, hunger, weight loss, and itchy skin.


Should you consult a doctor?

Seek a doctor if you experience symptoms of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) such as sweating, trembling, confusion, or dizziness. Consult your doctor before using Actrapid 100 IU/ml Flexpen if your diabetes is well managed with current insulin therapy, after recent illness or infections, during intense physical activity, before traveling abroad (as meal and injection times may need adjustment), or if you have a history of stroke.


Side effects of Actrapid 100 IU/ml Flexpen

Side Effects of Actrapid 100 IU/ml Flexpen may include hypoglycemia, which is low blood glucose level, and symptoms of this may include cold sweat, anxiety, shakiness, and hunger pangs. Weight gain could also occur as a side effect. Injection site reactions like pain, swelling, redness, and itching are common. Hypokalaemia, or low potassium levels, may occur. This medication might also lead to lipodystrophy, which involves fat deposition under the skin. Other potential side effects can be constipation, rash, and itchy skin. In some cases, individuals might experience redness, swelling, and itching at the injection site. Serious side effects that require immediate medical attention include signs of heart failure such as shortness of breath, chest pain, and sudden weight gain, as well as serious allergic reactions like hives, swelling of the face, and difficulty breathing or swallowing. If any of these adverse effects persist or if there are concerns, it is crucial to consult a doctor promptly.


Safety advice

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liver

If you have liver disease, it is important to be cautious when using Actrapid 100 IU/ml Flexpen. Your doctor may need to adjust the dose of the medication specifically for you. It is crucial to regularly monitor your glucose levels so that any necessary dose adjustments can be made promptly. If you have a history of liver diseases or conditions, please consult your doctor before using Actrapid 100 IU/ml Flexpen to ensure safe and effective treatment.

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kidney

When using Actrapid 100 IU/ml Flexpen, be cautious if you have kidney disease. Your doctor may need to adjust the dose. Regularly monitor blood glucose levels for proper adjustment.

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alcohol

Avoid consuming alcohol while using Actrapid 100 IU/ml Flexpen. Combining alcohol with this medication can lead to harmful effects on blood sugar levels, posing serious risks.

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driving

If you experience symptoms of low or high blood sugar, avoid driving. Be cautious as Actrapid 100 IU/ml Flexpen may cause drowsiness, affecting concentration and reaction time. Hypoglycemia can impact driving ability.

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pregnancy

Actrapid 100 IU/ml Flexpen can be used during pregnancy; however, insulin dose adjustments may be necessary during and after delivery. Limited human studies show low risks, but consult your doctor for individual advice.

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breastfeeding

Actrapid 100 IU/ml Flexpen is safe to use while breastfeeding. Studies show the drug has minimal transfer to breastmilk and poses no harm to infants. Only administer under physician supervision.


Age above 75(Geriatrics)

Actrapid 100 IU/ml Flexpen should be used with caution among the elderly patients (aged 65 years or above). Therefore, consult your doctor before administration.


Age below 6 months(Pediatrics)

Actrapid 100 IU/ml Flexpen should be used in children and in adolescents (aged below 18 years) only if prescribed by the physician. Therefore, consult your doctor before administration.


Consumption warning before consuming Actrapid 100 IU/ml Flexpen

Before consuming Actrapid 100 IU/ml Flexpen, it is crucial to note that this medication is intended for subcutaneous (under the skin) use only. Changing the brand of insulin or the method of injection should only be done under strict medical supervision to prevent any adverse effects. It is essential to be aware of the symptoms of hyperglycemia, such as excessive thirst, dry mouth, and increased urination, as well as symptoms like heart failure, weight gain, and fluid retention, which should not be ignored. Alcohol consumption can impact blood glucose levels, so it is advisable to avoid it while using Actrapid 100 IU/ml Flexpen. Additionally, traveling across multiple time zones may require adjustments to your insulin schedule. This medication may also decrease potassium levels, potentially leading to serious health complications if untreated. Individuals with low blood glucose levels, kidney, liver, or heart problems, or issues with alcohol or other drugs, should not take Actrapid 100 IU/ml Flexpen.


Disease interactions

When it comes to administering Actrapid 100 IU/ml Flexpen, it's important to be cautious with patients who have kidney disease, liver disease, low blood sugar levels (hypoglycemia), or low potassium levels (hypokalemia). These conditions can interact with the medication and may lead to unwanted side effects or complications. Patients with any of these conditions should consult their healthcare provider before using Actrapid 100 IU/ml Flexpen to ensure it is safe for them. It is essential to consider these disease drug interactions to prevent any potential harm and ensure the patient's well-being.


What if you forgot to take Actrapid 100 IU/ml Flexpen?

If you forget to use your Actrapid 100 IU/ml Flexpen, your blood sugar levels may rise too high, known as hyperglycemia. In case you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is close to the time for your next scheduled dose, then it's best to skip the missed dose and stick to your usual dosing routine. Avoid taking a double dose to make up for the one you missed. This will help maintain the consistency of your medication regimen and support the effectiveness of Actrapid 100 IU/ml Flexpen in managing your blood sugar levels properly.


What happens if you take overdose of Actrapid 100 IU/ml Flexpen?

In case of an overdose of Actrapid 100 IU/ml Flexpen, it is crucial to seek immediate medical assistance. Whether consumed accidentally by you or someone else, consulting a doctor or visiting the nearest hospital is necessary. Taking more than the prescribed dose can be harmful and requires prompt medical attention to address any potential risks or complications. If an overdose occurs, do not hesitate to reach out for professional medical help to ensure your well-being.


Related lab tests

Related Lab Tests for monitoring the use of Actrapid 100 IU/ml Flexpen include HbA1C, which is also known as Glycated Hemoglobin or Glycosylated Hemoglobin. This test helps in assessing the average blood sugar levels over the past 2-3 months. Another important test is the Blood Glucose Fasting (FBS) test, which measures the blood sugar level after fasting overnight. Insulin-Fasting test can also be relevant to check the insulin levels in the body, especially in relation to the use of Actrapid 100 IU/ml Flexpen. Additionally, tests such as Diabetic Checkup, Advance Diabetes Monitoring (Senior Female), and Jaanch Diabetic Profile Basic can provide comprehensive insights into the overall diabetic condition and management while using Actrapid 100 IU/ml Flexpen.


Additional Information

Habit FormingNo
Chemical ClassInsulin analogue
Therapeutic Class-
Action ClassHuman insulin- short acting

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Disclaimer

The information provided on this website is to the best of our abilities to ensure it is accurate, reliable, and reviewed by a team of professionals. It should not be used to diagnose, prevent, or cure any health problem. The information presented here is not intended to create a doctor-patient relationship or replace a registered medical practitioner's advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The absence or provision of any information or warning regarding any medicine should not be assumed as an implied or explicit assurance of safety or efficacy. We highly recommend consulting your registered medical practitioner for all queries or doubts related to your medical condition. Do not ignore professional medical advice or delay seeking it based on the content encountered on our website. We intend to support, not replace, the doctor-patient relationship.

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Dr. Abdullah Khan

MBBS - General Medicine

Last update on 01-Oct-2024