Insugen 50/50 Refil

Insugen 50/50 Refil

Insugen 50/50 Refil is a biphasic insulin preparation designed to manage blood sugar levels in individuals with diabetes mellitus.

• Name: Insugen 50/50 Refil (Brand name: Insugen 50/50 Refil, also referred to as Insugen-50/50 100IU/ml Refil Injection or Cartridge).

• Composition: Each mL of the 3 mL cartridge contains 100 IU of Human Insulin IP. It is a pre-mixed combination consisting of 50% Human Insulin (soluble insulin/regular insulin) and 50% Insulin Isophane (NPH insulin).

• Uses: Insugen 50/50 Refil is used for the treatment of both type 1 and type 2 diabetes mellitus in adults and children. It helps to lower and maintain blood glucose levels by facilitating the uptake of glucose into muscle and fat cells and inhibiting glucose release from the liver. This provides both rapid-acting effects for mealtime glucose spikes and an intermediate duration of action for sustained blood sugar control.

• Dosage and Administration: Insugen 50/50 Refil should be administered subcutaneously (under the skin) in areas such as the thighs, abdomen, buttocks, or upper arm. Injection sites should be rotated each time to prevent skin damage like lipodystrophy. It is typically administered approximately 30-45 minutes before a meal, and a meal containing carbohydrates should be consumed within 20-30 minutes of the injection to prevent low blood sugar. The dosage should be individualized as prescribed by a doctor. It is crucial not to administer this medicine intravenously (IV).

• Side Effects:

  • Common: Hypoglycemia (low blood glucose levels), pain, redness, itching, swelling at the injection site, lipodystrophy (skin thickening or pits at the injection site), oedema (swelling), rashes, and weight gain.
  • Serious: If symptoms of hypoglycemia (e.g., sweating, anxiety, fast heartbeat, headache, intense hunger, dizziness, irritability) are severe or persistent, medical attention should be sought. Untreated severe hypoglycemia can be dangerous.

• Precautions:

  • Do not take if you have low blood glucose levels (hypoglycemia) or a known allergy to insulin or any excipients.
  • Use with caution if you have kidney, liver, or heart problems.
  • Avoid alcohol consumption as it can interfere with insulin's effects and increase the risk of low or high blood glucose levels.
  • Monitor blood sugar levels closely during pregnancy, as dose requirements may change. It is considered safe for use during breastfeeding.
  • Driving or operating machinery should be done with caution, as insulin can cause low blood sugar and impair abilities.
  • Do not stop taking the medicine without consulting a doctor, as it can lead to high blood sugar levels and complications.
  • Always carry a fast-acting sugar source (like sugar candy or fruit juice) to address symptoms of hypoglycemia.
  • Inform your doctor about all other medications you are taking, including pain killers, antibiotics, diuretics, antihypertensive drugs, and corticosteroids, as they can interact with insulin.
  • Do not mix Insugen 50/50 Refil with other insulins.
  • Proper dose adjustments and careful monitoring are needed in elderly patients and children.

• Storage: Insugen 50/50 Refil is a cold chain medicine and must be stored in a refrigerator between 2-8°C. Do not freeze it. The carton should not be opened to protect it from light. After opening or during use, it can be kept at room temperature for a limited period (e.g., 42 days/6 weeks), but check product specific instructions. Any unused portion should be appropriately discarded and not stored.

Here are frequently asked questions about INSUGEN 50/50 REFIL:

What is INSUGEN 50/50 REFIL used for?

INSUGEN 50/50 REFIL is primarily used for the treatment of both Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in adults and children. It helps to maintain blood sugar levels by improving glycemic control. It can also be used to control high blood sugar levels and prevent diabetic ketoacidosis.

How does INSUGEN 50/50 REFIL work?

INSUGEN 50/50 REFIL is a combination of 50% soluble (short-acting/regular) human insulin and 50% isophane (NPH) intermediate-acting insulin. It works by mimicking the body's natural insulin, facilitating the uptake of glucose by muscle and fat cells, and inhibiting the release of glucose from the liver. This dual action provides both rapid and consistent sugar control, helping to lower blood glucose levels after meals and maintain them between meals and overnight.

What is the usual dosage and administration for INSUGEN 50/50 REFIL?

The dosage of INSUGEN 50/50 REFIL should be individualized and prescribed by your doctor. It is typically administered subcutaneously (under the skin) into the thighs, abdomen, buttocks, or upper arm, usually 30-45 minutes before a meal. It's important to rotate injection sites to prevent skin damage. Your doctor or nurse will provide training on how to administer the injection correctly.

What are the possible side effects of INSUGEN 50/50 REFIL?

Common side effects include low blood sugar levels (hypoglycemia), allergic reactions at the injection site (such as pain, redness, itching, swelling), lipodystrophy (skin thickening or pits at the injection site), rashes, weight gain, and edema (swelling). If any side effects are persistent or concerning, consult your doctor.

Is INSUGEN 50/50 REFIL safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

INSUGEN 50/50 REFIL can be used during pregnancy and is generally considered safe if prescribed by a doctor, although close monitoring of blood sugar levels may be required as dose requirements can change. It is also considered safe for use during breastfeeding, but it's advisable to consult your doctor as a dose adjustment may be needed.

Can INSUGEN 50/50 REFIL be taken with other medications?

Caution should be exercised when taking INSUGEN 50/50 REFIL with other medications, as some drugs can reduce or enhance insulin requirements. For example, other antidiabetic agents, ACE inhibitors (like ramipril, lisinopril), and certain antidepressants (like fluoxetine) may increase the risk of low blood sugar, while oral contraceptives, steroids, and thyroid hormones may raise blood sugar levels. Beta-blockers can mask the symptoms of low blood sugar. Always inform your doctor about all medications you are taking.

What precautions should be taken while using INSUGEN 50/50 REFIL?

Do not use INSUGEN 50/50 REFIL if you have low blood glucose levels (hypoglycemia). Inform your doctor if you have kidney, liver, or heart problems, or thyroid disorders. Avoid consuming alcohol as it can interfere with how insulin works and cause fluctuations in blood glucose levels. If you experience symptoms of low blood sugar while driving, stop immediately. Rotate your injection sites and avoid injecting into tender, red, bruised, or scarred skin. Do not stop taking the medicine without consulting your doctor.

What happens if a dose of INSUGEN 50/50 REFIL is missed?

Missing a dose can lead to high blood sugar levels (hyperglycemia). If you remember a missed dose, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed one and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose to compensate, as this can cause a dangerous drop in blood glucose. If blood glucose levels are high after a missed dose, an additional dose of regular insulin might be recommended by your doctor.

How should INSUGEN 50/50 REFIL be stored?

Unopened INSUGEN 50/50 REFIL should be stored in a refrigerator between 2°C to 8°C. It should not be frozen. Once in use, or when carried as a spare, it can be kept at room temperature for up to 4 to 6 weeks (42 days), but check the specific instructions for the product. Keep it out of reach of children and protect it from light. Any unused portion should be appropriately discarded.