Lupisulin R (regular)

LUPISULIN R (REGULAR) is a rapid-acting insulin preparation manufactured by Lupin Ltd., used for glycemic control in individuals with diabetes mellitus.

Name

• Brand Name: LUPISULIN R (REGULAR)
• Common Name: Human Insulin (Regular), Soluble Insulin

Composition

LUPISULIN R contains Human Insulin as its active ingredient. It is available in strengths such as 40 IU/ml and 100 IU/ml.

Uses

LUPISULIN R is prescribed for the treatment of:

• Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus: Where the body does not produce enough insulin.
• Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: When the body either stops producing enough insulin or becomes resistant to its effects. It is used when oral medications are insufficient to control blood sugar levels. It helps maintain blood sugar levels and prevents serious complications of diabetes such as kidney damage, eye damage (diabetic retinopathy), nerve damage (diabetic neuropathy), and delayed wound healing. It works by facilitating glucose uptake into muscle and fat cells and suppressing glucose production by the liver.

Dosage and Administration

LUPISULIN R is typically administered subcutaneously (under the skin) 20 to 30 minutes before a meal. Common injection sites include the thigh, stomach area, buttock, or upper arm. It is crucial to rotate injection sites to prevent skin damage like lipodystrophy. The exact dosage and frequency are determined by a healthcare professional based on individual blood sugar levels, body weight, diet, and activity level. In specific medical situations, it may be administered intravenously under strict medical supervision.

Side Effects

Common side effects include:

• Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), characterized by symptoms like sweating, blurred vision, irregular heartbeat, hunger, tremors, anxiety, shakiness, and fatigue.
• Injection site reactions such as pain, redness, itching, swelling, or thickening of the skin.
• Weight gain.
• Decreased potassium levels (hypokalaemia). Serious side effects, though less common, can include signs of heart failure (shortness of breath, chest pain, swelling of body parts), or severe allergic reactions.

Precautions

• Hypoglycemia: LUPISULIN R can cause low blood sugar. Patients should carry a source of fast-acting carbohydrates.
• Alcohol Consumption: Avoid or limit alcohol intake as it can significantly affect blood sugar levels, increasing the risk of hypoglycemia.
• Liver and Kidney Impairment: Use with caution in patients with liver or kidney problems, as dose adjustments and close monitoring of blood sugar levels may be necessary.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Use during pregnancy and lactation is generally considered safe if prescribed by a doctor, but close monitoring and potential dose adjustments are advised.
• Driving and Machinery: Patients should exercise caution as hypoglycemia can impair the ability to drive or operate machinery.
• Never share needles or syringes.
• Thyroid Disorders: May require dose adjustments.
• Do not stop taking LUPISULIN R without consulting a doctor, as it can lead to hyperglycemia and other complications.

Storage

• Unopened vials/cartridges: Must be stored in a refrigerator at 2°C to 8°C. Do not freeze.
• After opening or insertion into a pen: Should be kept at room temperature (below 30°C or 86°F) and typically used within 28 days, then discarded even if some medicine remains.
• Protect from light and heat.
• Keep out of sight and reach of children.

Here are some frequently asked questions about LUPISULIN R (REGULAR) by LUPIN LTD:

What is LUPISULIN R used for?

LUPISULIN R (Regular) is a short-acting human insulin used to treat both type 1 and type 2 diabetes mellitus. It helps control blood sugar levels, particularly after meals, and aids in preventing serious complications of diabetes such as kidney damage, eye damage, nerve problems, and loss of limbs. It is often prescribed alongside long-acting insulin or other diabetes medications.

How does LUPISULIN R work?

LUPISULIN R contains human insulin, which replaces the insulin that the body may not be producing sufficiently. It works by stimulating the uptake of glucose (sugar) from the bloodstream into muscle and fat cells for energy. Additionally, it helps to lower blood sugar by inhibiting the production and release of glucose by the liver. This medication typically begins to work within approximately 30 minutes after injection, and its effects can last for up to 8 hours.

What is the usual dosage for LUPISULIN R?

The dosage of LUPISULIN R is highly individualized and determined by your doctor. It depends on factors such as your weight, diet, activity level, and how your body responds to the treatment. It is usually administered subcutaneously (under the skin) in areas like the thigh, upper arm, or abdomen, typically 15 to 30 minutes before a meal. You should always follow your doctor's instructions and never adjust the dose without consulting them.

What are the possible side effects of LUPISULIN R?

The most common side effect of LUPISULIN R is hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar, which can manifest as lightheadedness, dizziness, anxiety, nervousness, tiredness, hunger, visual disturbances, shaking, sweating, or pale skin. Other common side effects include reactions at the injection site such as pain, redness, swelling, or itching. Weight gain is also a possible side effect. Rarely, lipodystrophy (changes in fat tissue at injection sites, causing lumps or dents) can occur.

Is LUPISULIN R safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

LUPISULIN R is generally considered safe for use during pregnancy and while breastfeeding if prescribed by your doctor. However, close monitoring of blood sugar levels is recommended during pregnancy, as insulin dose requirements may change with each trimester and after delivery. It is important to inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding.

Can LUPISULIN R be taken with other medications?

LUPISULIN R can be used alone or in combination with other diabetes medications, including long-acting insulin or oral antidiabetic medicines. However, it's crucial to inform your doctor about all medications you are currently taking, as certain drugs can interact with insulin, potentially leading to fluctuations in blood sugar levels (either too low or too high). Examples of interacting medications include other antidiabetic agents, some antidepressants, certain antibiotics, blood pressure medications, steroids, and thyroid hormones.

What precautions should be taken while using LUPISULIN R?

Regularly monitor your blood sugar levels as advised by your doctor to ensure correct dosing. Be aware of the symptoms of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) and always carry a source of fast-acting carbohydrates (like glucose tablets or fruit juice) to treat it immediately. Avoid consuming alcohol, as it can interfere with how insulin works and may lead to both low and high blood glucose levels. Rotate your injection sites continuously to prevent skin damage like lipodystrophy. Inform your doctor if you have kidney, liver, or heart problems, thyroid disorders, or if you are planning to change your diet or exercise routine. Do not stop taking or adjust your insulin dose without consulting your doctor.

What happens if a dose of LUPISULIN R is missed?

If you miss a dose of LUPISULIN R, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it's almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to compensate for the missed one, as this can cause a dangerous drop in blood glucose. Missing a dose can lead to high blood sugar levels.

How should LUPISULIN R be stored?

Unopened vials or cartridges of LUPISULIN R should be stored in a refrigerator at a temperature between 2°C and 8°C (36°F to 46°F). It is crucial not to freeze the medicine; discard any vials that have been frozen. Once a cartridge has been inserted into an injection pen or a vial has been opened, it should not be refrigerated and should be kept at room temperature (below 30°C or 86°F) and used within 28 days, after which it should be discarded. Always keep it out of the reach of children and protect it from light.