Insulin Aspart

Novolog 

Novolog is an FDA-approved, fast-acting medication that is used to manage high blood sugar in adults and children with type 1 and type 2 diabetes mellitus. It contains insulin aspart, which is a man-made insulin that facilitates quick absorption and starts to work swiftly within 5 to 10 minutes of injection. It is available in various forms and strengths, including a 10 ml vial and 3 ml PenFill, FlexPen, and FlexTouch options. The medication dosage depends upon the patient’s age, condition, needs, and how the patient’s body responds to the treatment. Novolog is not recommended for use during episodes of hypoglycemia and in patients who have a known hypersensitivity to Novolog or any of its excipients. If you have any query or concern regarding the medication, consult your doctor or healthcare provider and follow their guidance to safely and efficiently use Novolog. 

Product Overview

NovoLog (insulin aspart) is a rapid-acting insulin analog designed to manage hyperglycemia in individuals with type 1 and type 2 diabetes mellitus. It is crucial in lowering mealtime blood sugar spikes, ensuring better glycemic control. The main ingredient, insulin aspart, is structurally similar to naturally occurring insulin, facilitating quick absorption and rapid action, usually within 5 to 10 minutes of administration.

NovoLog is available in various forms and strengths, including a 10 ml vial and 3 ml PenFill, FlexPen, and FlexTouch options. It is recommended for adults and children with diabetes, with dosages tailored to individual needs. The usual daily dose for type 1 diabetes ranges from 0.2 to 1 unit/kg, while for type 2 diabetes, it starts at 0.1 units/kg or ten units/day. Administration is subcutaneous, typically 5 to 10 minutes before a meal.

Common side effects include injection site reactions, weight gain, and hypoglycemia. Patients should exercise caution, especially regarding hypoglycemia, and adhere to proper injection techniques and regular blood glucose monitoring. In case of a missed dose, take it as soon as possible, but do not double up doses. Store unopened NovoLog in the refrigerator and open pens at room temperature, away from direct heat and light. Always consult a healthcare professional for personalized guidance and dosage adjustments.

Uses

Targeted Treatment 

It manages hyperglycemia in individuals with type 1 and type diabetes mellitus. 

Benefits

• It helps in lowering mealtime blood sugar spikes in individuals with diabetes. 
• It controls high blood sugar levels in adults and children with diabetes. 

[Note: Do not take Novolog without consulting your doctor. They will determine whether you need this medication based on your conditions.]

Novolog Dosage

Forms & Strengths

Form: vial 

Strength: 10 ml

Form: PenFill

Strength: 3 ml

Form: NovoLog FlexPen

Strength: 3 ml

Form: NovoLog FlexTouch

Strength: 3 ml

Recommended Dosages

Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus

Recommended daily dose: 0.2-0.6 units/kg/day in divided doses. 

Maintenance dose: it is usually between 0.5 and 1 unit/kg/day

Conservative doses: 0.2-0.4 unit/kg/day 

Pediatric dose: 0.8-1.2 units/kg/day SC

Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

Subcutaneous dose: 0.1-0.2 units/kg/day or ten units/day 10-15 minutes before a meal. 

[Note: Remember, these recommendations may vary from person to person. Discuss it with your doctor, and they’ll customize your dosage accordingly.]

How to Take It?

• Carefully read the instructions for use that come with your prescription and follow the instructions given by your doctor for a safe and efficient use of the medication. 
• Before using it for the first time, your doctor will show you how to administer it. 
• Novolog is a rapid-acting insulin, so eating a meal within 5 to 10 minutes of taking it is essential. 
• Before using, ensure you have the correct form and insulin dose. 
• Check your blood glucose levels on a regular basis and share the report with your doctor. 
• Do not reuse your needles. Discard it safely after every use. 
• Rotate the injection spot after each injection to avoid pits and lumps forming under your skin. 
• Do not inject into skin that is torn, red, damaged, stiff, tender, and has stretch marks. 
• The best sites to inject the injection subcutaneously are the abdomen, upper arm, buttocks and front thigh. 
• Do not inject the insulin into muscles or veins. Only a healthcare professional should administer the insulin intravenously. 
• If you are using an insulin pump, do not dilute Novolog. 
• Check the insulin for any change in appearance. Do not inject if the solution is discolored, clumpy or has particles. 
• Clean your hands with soap and water before and after administering the insulin. 
• Clean the injection site with rubbing alcohol and a cotton swab. 
• Pinch the skin and inject Novolin as your doctor directs, typically 5-10 minutes before taking a meal.
• Keep it for 6 seconds and take it out of your skin. 
• Do not rub the injection site after injecting the insulin. 
• Do not inject cold insulin, as it may be painful. 
• Take this medication regularly to get the best results from it. 

[Note: Your doctor will decide the right amount for you based on your condition, following guidelines and studies on the drug. They’ll adjust it as needed over time.]

How Does Novolog Work?

Novolog contains insulin aspart, a synthetic insulin that is used at mealtimes. It starts working swiftly and helps in lowering mealtime blood sugar spikes in individuals with diabetes. You can eat within 5 to 10 minutes of administering Novolog. It provides effect for up to 3 to 5 hours of injection, with the peak effect occurring between 45 and 90 minutes post-injection. Combined with long-acting insulin, it is the most effective and has a long-lasting impact. NovoLog 70/30 provides long-term control of blood sugar. It blends protamine crystals with 70% insulin Aspart. These crystals act like protein, which delays the effects of the medication so that your insulin gets released over an entire day. 

Important Safety Information

Side Effects

Common side effects of Novolog may include: 

• Injection site reactions 
• Weight gain 
• Low blood sugar 
• Diarrhea 
• Nausea
• Headache 
• Itching
• Rash 

Mild Side Effects of Novolog may include:

• Mild allergic reaction
• Swelling in your arms, hands, legs, or feet
• Weak muscle reflexes
• Pain in the abdomen or chest
• Urinary tract infection
• Fungal infection in the nails

Adverse Side Effects of Novolog may include:

• Severe hypoglycemia
• Severe allergic reactions
• Hypokalemia
• Heart failure

[Note: This list may not cover all possible side effects. Always consult with your healthcare giver for medical advice about side effects.]

Warnings

• Do not drive, operate heavy machinery or indulge in activities that require your concentration unless you determine how this medication affects you. 
• Do not consume alcohol or take any medicine that contains alcohol alongside Novolog. 
• Do not change your brand, type and dosage of insulin without consulting your doctor, as it may cause unwanted side effects. 
• Hypoglycemia is the most common adverse side effect of Novolog. It is essential to look for signs and symptoms of low blood sugar levels. If untreated, it may lead to life-threatening conditions such as seizure, coma and death. 
• Do not share your syringe or pre-filled pen with others, even if the needle is changed, as it may cause infection to spread from one person to another. 
• All insulins, including Novolog, should not be taken alongside certain antidiabetic medications belonging to the class of drugs known as thiazolidinediones, as it may increase your risk of heart failure. If you’ve already had heart failure, this may make your condition worse. 
• Novolog may cause severe allergic reactions in some people. Discontinue the medication and seek medical assistance if you face symptoms such as itching, rash, swelling, trouble breathing, dizziness and confusion.
• All insulin products may cause changes in potassium levels in the body. 
• To prevent accidental mix-ups of the insulin, patients should ensure that they have the correct type and dose of the insulin.

Precautions

• Do not take Novolog if you have severe low blood sugar. 
• Before taking this medication, let your doctor know if you are allergic to Novolin, insulin aspart or any other insulin. 
• Before taking Novolin, tell your doctor if you think you are pregnant, planning to get pregnant or if you are breastfeeding a baby.
• Before taking Novolin, tell your doctor if you have or have ever had any medical condition and what medication you are using for its treatment. This includes all prescription medication, over-the-counter drugs and herbal supplements that you are taking. 
• Tell your doctor about your medical history, especially if you have or ever had a disease related to your kidney, heart or liver. 
• While receiving treatment with this medication, it is essential to monitor your blood sugar levels on a regular basis and share your report with your doctor to help them determine the correct dosage for you. 
• The dosage of your medication depends on various factors such as your age, condition, needs and your body’s response to treatment. 
• You may need an adjustment in your insulin dose if you gain or lose weight, change your diet or level of physical activity, experience illness or if you are facing increased stress. 
• Do not use Novolog if the product is tampered with, broken, or leaking.
• Novolog should be used with caution in patients with hepatic and renal impairment. They may require dosage adjustments and careful monitoring for signs and symptoms of hyperglycemia. 
• Do not skip meals or indulge in strenuous physical activity. It may cause hypoglycemia. 

Contraindications

• During episodes of hypoglycemia
• A known hypersensitivity to Novolog, insulin aspart or any of the ingredients present in the medication. 

Missed Dose

• For optimal results, it is recommended to maintain consistency of dosage and take it around the same time every day. 
• You should take Novolog 5 to 10 minutes before a meal.
• If you missed a dose of Novolog, take it as soon as you remember. 
• However, if it is almost time for your next dose, you may skip the missed dose and take the next dose as per your dosing schedule. 
• Do not take two doses of the same medication to compensate for the missed dose. 
• If you forget to take Novolog before your meal, you may take it while having your meal. 
• Check your blood glucose levels if you remember to take your dose after finishing your meal. 
• If it is satisfactory, you can skip the missed dose, but if it is high, take it as soon as possible. 
• If you still cannot determine when to take your next dose, contact your doctor or healthcare provider for guidance. 
• You can try setting a reminder on your phone to avoid missing doses.

[Note: If you have missed a medication dose and are unsure when to take the next one, immediately consult your doctor or pharmacist.]

Overdose

If you take Novolog more than recommended, it may result in hypoglycemia and hypokalemia. Mild episodes of hypoglycemia can be treated by taking oral glucose. Patients may also require adjustments in dosage, exercise and meal patterns. More adverse episodes of hypoglycemia, such as coma, seizures, or neurological impairment, may be treated with glucagon. Hypokalemia must be adequately treated to prevent life-threatening conditions.

[Note: If you consumed more than the recommended dose, get medical help immediately or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.]

Storage

• Unopened Novolog may be stored in the refrigerator for up to its expiration date. 
• Unopened Novolog may be suitable for 28 days when kept at room temperature. 
• Opened Novolog pens should be kept at average room temperature in a dark place away from excess heat, direct sunlight and moisture. 
• Do not keep it in the bathroom or along with other medications. 
• In-use vials may be kept at room temperature or continue storing it in the refrigerator. 
• Keep all insulins, including Novolog, in a safe place, away from the sight and reach of children. 
• Do not keep medications that are no longer needed or outdated. Discard them safely. 
• Do not flush down the medication or throw it in wastewater or your garbage bin unless instructed by your healthcare provider.
• Dispose of the injectable pens, cartridges, syringes and needles in a sharps container. 
• If you do not have a sharps container, you can use a container made of hard plastic and a tightly fitting lid.
• For more information on the safe disposal of the medication, you can contact your healthcare provider or local waste disposal company.

 [Note: Discuss with your healthcare professional the proper disposal of unused medicine and any questions you may have regarding its storage.]

Novolog Interactions

• Antidiabetic agents 
• ACE inhibitors 
• Angiotensin II receptor-blocking agents
• Antipsychotics 
• Beta-blockers 
• Clonidine 
• Corticosteroids 
• Diuretics 
• Disopyramide  
• Estrogens 
• Fibrates
• Fluoxetine
• Glucagon 
• Isoniazid 
• Monoamine oxidase inhibitors
• Oral contraceptives 
• Pentamidine 
• Pentoxifylline 
• Pramlintide 
• Protease inhibitors
• Reserpine 
• Salicylates
• Somatostatin analogs
• Thyroid hormones 

[Note: This isn’t a complete list, and there could be other drugs that interact with Novolog. Tell your doctor about prescription, over-the-counter medicines, and herbal products.]

Novolog Alternatives

• Fiasp (insulin aspart)
• Apidra ( insulin glulisine)
• Humalog (insulin lispro)
• Afrezza (inhaled insulin human)
• Humulin R (insulin regular)
• Humulin N (insulin NPH)
• Novolin R (insulin regular)
• Novolin N (insulin NPH)
• Toujeo (insulin glargine)
• Lantus (insulin glargine)
• Basaglar (insulin glargine)
• Tresiba (insulin degludec)

[Note: Your doctor will choose what’s best for you. Don’t use any of these alternative medications without consulting your healthcare provider. Taking them by yourself may cause serious side effects.] 

Frequently Asked Questions 

1. How soon does a dose of NovoLog insulin start to work?

After being injected, Novolog insulin usually starts to work within 5 to 10 minutes, and its best effect is usually between 45 and 90 minutes. Because of this, it is a good choice for controlling blood sugar before or after a meal.

2. Can other insulins be mixed with NovoLog?

You shouldn’t mix NovoLog with other insulins unless your doctor tells you to. It is made to be used by itself, and mixing it with other insulins could change how well it works and how it works. Before making any changes to your insulin schedule, you should always talk to your healthcare team first.

3. What is the best way to store NovoLog insulin?

NovoLog insulin pens should be kept in a refrigerator between 36 to 46 degrees Fahrenheit (2 and 8 degrees Celsius). They can be kept at room temperature (below 86°F or 30°C) for up to 28 days after they have been used. Don’t put them in settings that are too hot or too cold, and keep them out of direct sunlight.

4. What should I do if I forget to take my NovoLog dose?

If you forget to take your NovoLog dose, take it as soon as you remember, and then go back to your normal routine. But if it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular routine. Do not take two doses at once to make up for one you missed.

Our Guarantee

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