Apidra SoloStar Pen 100IU/ml Injection 1 'S

About

Insulin is one of the most important naturally occurring hormones which helps regulate glucose in the human body. It breaks down glucose to extract energy compounds from it required for normal body function, growth as well as it helps to store away glucose mainly in the liver and muscles in the form of glycogen while maintaining the blood levels. In case of insufficient or lack of insulin, blood glucose starts to accumulate which can have damaging effects on the body such as to the kidneys, heart, impaired vision, loss of nerve sensations, loss of limbs. 

Apidra SoloStar Pen 100IU/ml Injection 1 'S is a synthetic form of insulin with a quick mode of action that is meant to be injected into the patient along with an intermediate or long-acting insulin medicine or other hypoglycemics and together this helps bring raised blood glucose levels to normal. Apidra SoloStar Pen 100IU/ml Injection 1 'S is chemically insulin glulisine which works by mimicking the effects of a natural hormone found in the human body to be administered in patients with Diabetes (Type 1, 2).

Apidra SoloStar Pen 100IU/ml Injection 1 'S is available in a glass vial and given as an injection under the skin (subcutaneously), common sites being stomach, buttock, thigh, or the back of the arm as these areas have the most amount of fat in the human body and therefore, allow for the fast absorption of the Apidra SoloStar Pen 100IU/ml Injection 1 'S. The dose is dependent on individual needs and glycemic index in diabetics.

Action wise this drug is fast and short-acting and therefore can be taken 15-20 minutes before or after a meal. 

Apidra SoloStar Pen 100IU/ml Injection 1 'S is safe to be administered to pregnant and lactating women as well as to children as young as 4 years. For elderly patients above the age of 65 years or for patients suffering from mild to moderate kidney impairment (as Apidra SoloStar Pen 100IU/ml Injection 1 'S is removed from the kidneys), the dosage may be lowered. Apidra SoloStar Pen 100IU/ml Injection 1 'S is not prescribed to patients suffering from severe kidney impairment. The most common side effects include pain at the injection site, low blood sugar, shortness of breath, urination, and constipation. 

Indications

Apidra SoloStar Pen 100IU/ml Injection 1 'S can be used to treat:

• Diabetes Type 1
• Diabetes Type 2
• Diabetic ketoacidosis
• Nonketotic hyperosmolar syndrome

How Does Apidra SoloStar Pen 100IU/ml Injection 1 'S Work

Apidra SoloStar Pen 100IU/ml Injection 1 'S works by mimicking the effects of a natural hormone found in the human body, known as insulin; it is with the help of insulin that glucose found in the bloodstream can enter the cells where it is used to provide organs with the energy they need to work efficiently. Apidra SoloStar Pen 100IU/ml Injection 1 'S belongs to a group of chemicals known as insulins for this reason.

How To Use Apidra SoloStar Pen 100IU/ml Injection 1 'S

Apidra SoloStar Pen 100IU/ml Injection 1 'S is to be injected into the subcutaneous tissue of the stomach, on either buttock, thigh, or the back of the arm as these areas have the most amount of fat in the human body and therefore, allow for the fast absorption of the medicine. The IV infusion can also be given in a hospital set up strictly administered by a health care professional. 

Apidra SoloStar Pen 100IU/ml Injection 1 'S is used in a combination therapy alongside long-acting or intermediate action insulin / oral hypoglycemics since it is short-acting. It must not be injected on sensitive or damaged skin; it is preferable to change the location of injection after each use around the same region. Injecting Apidra SoloStar Pen 100IU/ml Injection 1 'S into the veins may lead to severe hypoglycemia and is therefore avoided. 

It is advised to regularly monitor your blood sugar, and keep a record of HBA1C values which will decide how many doses you need. Your physician will give you the first dose and teach you how to use Apidra SoloStar Pen 100IU/ml Injection 1 'S since it is to be injected multiple times per day. The dose is directly dependent on blood sugar levels, carbohydrate consumption, lifestyle, and physical activity. Carefully disinfect the injection site and use a new syringe every time. Make sure to dispose of it by following Universal protocols for sharp disposal.

Dosage

Adult Dosage

Subcutaneous Injection

Apidra SoloStar Pen 100IU/ml Injection 1 'S can be given to adults 18 years and above when treating Type 2. Apidra SoloStar Pen 100IU/ml Injection 1 'S is to be injected into the subcutaneous tissue, two to three times a day or as prescribed by your doctor. Apidra SoloStar Pen 100IU/ml Injection 1 'S is usually taken 15 minutes before taking a meal or within the next 15-20 minutes after taking a meal. Combination hypoglycemic agents or insulin should be taken as per prescription. 

Intravenous Infusion

The IV infusion can be given in a hospital set up strictly administered by a health care professional, such as done for diabetic ketoacidosis.   It requires monitoring of blood sugar and dose adjustment accordingly. For dilution purposes Apidra SoloStar Pen 100IU/ml Injection 1 'S can be generally mixed with normal saline.

IV starting dose: 0.05 - 0.1 unit/kg/hour

The dose is reduced as blood sugar declines to a certain range – up to 0.02 - 0.05 unit/kg/hour

Child Dosage

Apidra SoloStar Pen 100IU/ml Injection 1 'S can be given to children 4 years and above (Type 1). Dosage is dependent upon a child’s weight and blood glucose levels and carbohydrate components in the diet. Apidra SoloStar Pen 100IU/ml Injection 1 'S is commonly administered before a meal, 15 minutes prior or 15-20 minutes after a meal. 

Elderly Dosage

For elderly patients above the age of 65 years or patients suffering from mild to moderate kidney impairment, the dosage may be lowered. Apidra SoloStar Pen 100IU/ml Injection 1 'S is not prescribed to patients suffering from severe kidney impairment.

*Doses may be tailored to cater to individual needs, follow your doctor's instructions

Pregnancy Use And Lactation

Apidra SoloStar Pen 100IU/ml Injection 1 'S is described as FDA category C in Pregnancy. It should be only used after consulting a physician if considered necessary. Apidra SoloStar Pen 100IU/ml Injection 1 'S passes in small amounts to the baby via breast milk, but that isn't considered unsafe and insulin is rendered ineffective if taken orally, the infant can break down insulin without any side effects.

The dosage for pregnant and lactating women is dependent upon their blood glucose levels and stage of illness.

Contraindications

Please tell your doctor if you have a history of any of the following before using Apidra SoloStar Pen 100IU/ml Injection 1 'S:

• Allergic reaction to Apidra SoloStar Pen 100IU/ml Injection 1 'S or any other drug or ingredient
• Hypoglycemia
• Hypokalemia 
• Type 2 Diabetes in children under 18 years
• Severe kidney impairment 
• Severe liver impairment 
• Severe heart impairment

Precautions

Please tell your doctor about any of the following conditions before using Apidra SoloStar Pen 100IU/ml Injection 1 'S

• If you have mild to moderate kidney impairment 
• If you have mild to moderate liver impairment 
• If you have a heart condition
• Alcohol intake must be avoided as it tends to cause hypoglycemia
• It is advised to regularly check your blood sugar levels. Keeping a glucometer at home is beneficial for diabetic patients
• Apidra SoloStar Pen 100IU/ml Injection 1 'S can cause a decrease in blood potassium, if you already have low serum potassium you are advised against the use of Apidra SoloStar Pen 100IU/ml Injection 1 'S
• Every time you use Apidra SoloStar Pen 100IU/ml Injection 1 'S, use a new syringe to inject. Do not share needles with other people. Carefully dispose of syringes and other sharps
• Make sure to have a glucagon kit ready to be used in cases of emergency when there's a sharp decline in blood sugar levels
• Always keep oral/injectable hypoglycemics in extra quantity
• When dose adjustment is done, carefully monitor the patient for possible side effects
• If you are pregnant or trying to conceive a baby, discuss with your doctor before using Apidra SoloStar Pen 100IU/ml Injection 1 'S

Interactions With Other Medications

Please tell your doctor about the use of the following before using Apidra SoloStar Pen 100IU/ml Injection 1 'S:

• Other diabetic drugs (eg. pioglitazone)
• Antidepressants like MAO Inhibitors
• Antihypertensives (eg. enalapril, valsartan, clonidine, reserpine)
• Cholesterol medication (eg. niacin)
• Salicylates (eg.aspirin, Diflunisal)
• Thyroid drugs
• Pentoxifylline 
• Bronchodilators 
• Steroids
• Antihistamines 
• Birth control pills 
• HIV drugs (eg. ritonavir)
• Antituberculosis drugs (eg. isoniazid) 
• Sulfonamide antibiotics 
• Heart medications (beta-blockers)

Adverse Effects

Common Adverse Effects

Like most medicines, Apidra SoloStar Pen 100IU/ml Injection 1 'S has certain side effects which include:

• Discomfort at the site of injection
• Hypoglycemia
• Headache
• Stomach problems (diarrhea, vomiting, nausea)
• Flu-like symptoms
• Dizziness/Lightheadedness 
• Frequent Urination

These effects tend to be mild and resolve in a few days of taking Apidra SoloStar Pen 100IU/ml Injection 1 'S.

Rare Adverse Effects

If any of the following adverse effects are seen or felt, the patient is advised to immediately contact their doctor.

• Shortness of breath
• Tachycardia 
• Weakness 
• Paresthesia 
• Blurred vision
• Back pain
• Sweating
• Fainting
• Seizures
• Arrhythmias 
• Hunger
• Weight gain
• Excess water retention

How To Cope With Some Of The Adverse Effects

• Soreness at the site of injection - A cold compress can be used for 5 minutes to ease out the soreness.
• Headaches - In which case make sure you rest and drink plenty of fluids. Avoid the use of alcohol. Take a prescribed painkiller. Consult your doctor if the headaches last longer than a week or are severe
• Feeling or being sick (nausea or vomiting) or diarrhea - Avoid eating rich or spicy food. It might help to take medication after food. If you're being sick, try drinking small, frequent sips of water. If you have diarrhea, replenish with plenty of water or other fluids.
• Flu-like symptoms- To manage symptoms, patients are advised to drink plenty of fluids and get plenty of rest and sleep. Take an antihistamine, a nasal decongestant, or a lozenge to feel better when needed.
• Fatigue- Patients experiencing this adverse effect are advised to take deep breaths, intake tea or coffee, get a good night’s rest, and not overburden themselves for a few days.
• Constipation - Can be combated by adding more fibers to the patient’s diet, asking the patient to drink plenty of fluids, and increasing their physical activity to trigger contractions in the intestines.
• Blurred vision - This side effect tends to go away on its own in a few days; patients are advised to not operate heavy machinery or drive any motorized vehicles in the meantime.If blurred vision persists, please contact your doctor.

FAQs

#1. Can Lifestyle Changes Help Me With My Condition?

Yes, you can adopt certain healthy lifestyle changes to help with high blood glucose levels. These include quitting smoking, avoiding alcohol, eating a wholesome diet consisting of fresh vegetables and fruits with the cut down of salt, and incorporating physical activity in your daily routine.

#2. Can I Take Apidra SoloStar Pen 100IU/ml Injection 1 'S During My Pregnancy?

Yes, Apidra SoloStar Pen 100IU/ml Injection 1 'S is deemed safe to be ingested during pregnancy under the care and supervision of a medical professional.

#3. What Lab Tests Will Be Prescribed While Treatment With Apidra SoloStar Pen 100IU/ml Injection 1 'S And How Often?

The physician is likely to periodically (every 3-4 months) prescribe lab tests to monitor the patient’s blood glucose levels, serum potassium, kidney functions, liver functions, and blood pressure levels.

#4. How Can I Monitor My Blood Sugar Levels At Home?

Most diabetic patients utilize at home glucose measuring device called Glucometer. The device can be easily bought over the counter at a pharmacy and is equally easy to use.

#5. Is It Safe To Have Painkillers While Taking Apidra SoloStar Pen 100IU/ml Injection 1 'S?

Yes, Over the counter painkillers such as paracetamol are safe to be ingested along with Apidra SoloStar Pen 100IU/ml Injection 1 'S under the supervision of a doctor.

#6. Is It Safe To Have Apidra SoloStar Pen 100IU/ml Injection 1 'S Along With Oral Contraceptives?

Not all oral contraceptives are safe to be taken while undergoing treatment with Apidra SoloStar Pen 100IU/ml Injection 1 'S as certain oral contraceptives (birth control pills) may negatively interact with Apidra SoloStar Pen 100IU/ml Injection 1 'S.

#7. Can Apidra SoloStar Pen 100IU/ml Injection 1 'S Cause  Dizziness? If So, How Should I Manage It?

Yes. It can cause dizziness as one of the most common side effects. If this happens, you should sit or lie down until the symptoms pass. However, please note this is temporary and usually goes away as the treatment continues. It is also advised to avoid the consumption of alcohol during your treatment, as it may worsen the dizziness.

#8. Does Apidra SoloStar Pen 100IU/ml Injection 1 'S Cause Addiction?

No. This drug has shown no evidence to prove addiction of any kind in any patient.

#9. How Long Will I Have To Continue Taking The Medication?

It is a long-term treatment and you might have to continue taking the medication even for the rest of your life.

#10. Can I Consume Alcohol With Apidra SoloStar Pen 100IU/ml Injection 1 'S?

Intake of alcohol is not advised while undergoing treatment with Apidra SoloStar Pen 100IU/ml Injection 1 'S as alcohol tends to negatively impact the patient’s blood glucose levels.

#11. What If I Forget To Take The Apidra SoloStar Pen 100IU/ml Injection 1 'S?

It is advised that the drug is taken at the same time each day, an alarm can be placed to remind patients to take Apidra SoloStar Pen 100IU/ml Injection 1 'S at the proper time and at least an hour before having any meal. If the patient misses a dose of Apidra SoloStar Pen 100IU/ml Injection 1 'S, they should take it immediately but if the time for the next dose of the drug is near then it's beneficial for patients to skip the missed dose and take the dose as per schedule, doubling of doses has proven to cause severe side effects.

#12. What If I Take Too Much Of Apidra SoloStar Pen 100IU/ml Injection 1 'S?

In case of too much consumption by accident, kindly contact your doctor or nearby hospital right away. Taking the excess drug can lower your blood sugar levels to dangerously low levels, seek medical attention at once. The amount of medication that can result in severe side effects varies from person to person. 

#13. Is Apidra SoloStar Pen 100IU/ml Injection 1 'S Safe To Give To Elderly Patients?

Yes, For elderly patients the dosage of the drug may be lower than normal due to decreased kidney function,Apidra SoloStar Pen 100IU/ml Injection 1 'S may not be effectively removed from the body and so, in such cases the doctor may prescribe an altered dose of the Apidra SoloStar Pen 100IU/ml Injection 1 'S.

#14. How Do I Know If I Have Hypoglycemia?

Low blood sugar is one of the most common side effects occurring with Apidra SoloStar Pen 100IU/ml Injection 1 'S. These symptoms should alarm you:

• Trembling 
• Dizziness
• Weakness  
• Confusion 
• Irritability 
• Tachycardia 
• Profus