Fiasp Flextouch

What is FIASP FLEXTOUCH used for?

FIASP FLEXTOUCH is a fast-acting insulin used to treat diabetes mellitus (Type 1 and Type 2) in adults, adolescents, and children aged 1 year and above. It helps to lower and control blood sugar levels, particularly after meals, and reduces the risk of serious diabetes-related complications. It is typically used in combination with intermediate-acting or long-acting insulin preparations.

How does FIASP FLEXTOUCH work?

FIASP FLEXTOUCH contains insulin aspart, a rapid-acting insulin. It works by mimicking the natural insulin response of the body, binding to insulin receptors on cells. This facilitates the uptake of glucose into muscle and fat cells and inhibits glucose production by the liver, thereby lowering blood sugar levels. The formulation includes nicotinamide (vitamin B3), which allows for faster absorption of the insulin compared to other rapid-acting insulins. FIASP starts to work very quickly, usually within 2.5 to 20 minutes, reaches its maximum effect between 1 and 3 hours, and its effect lasts for 3-5 hours.

What is the usual dosage for FIASP FLEXTOUCH?

The dosage of FIASP FLEXTOUCH is individualized and determined by your doctor based on your specific metabolic needs and blood glucose monitoring results. It is typically injected subcutaneously (under the skin) at the start of a meal or can be taken up to 20 minutes after starting a meal. The FlexTouch pen delivers doses from 1 to 80 units in 1-unit increments. It is commonly used as part of a basal-bolus regimen, where approximately 50% of the total daily insulin requirement may be provided by FIASP and the remainder by intermediate-acting or long-acting insulin.

What are the possible side effects of FIASP FLEXTOUCH?

The most common and potentially serious side effect is hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), which can occur suddenly and be life-threatening if not treated promptly. Other common side effects include reactions at the injection site such as rash, redness, inflammation, bruising, or itching, as well as lipodystrophy (thickening or depression of the skin) and cutaneous amyloidosis (lumps under the skin) at the injection site. Other reported mild side effects can include weight gain, nausea, diarrhea, headache, upper respiratory tract infections, and flu-like symptoms. Rare but serious side effects can include severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis), hypokalemia (low potassium levels), and fluid retention which may lead to heart failure, especially when taken with certain other medications.

Is FIASP FLEXTOUCH safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Yes, FIASP FLEXTOUCH can be used during pregnancy. However, intensified blood glucose control and close monitoring are recommended throughout pregnancy and when planning a pregnancy, as insulin needs typically change during different trimesters. FIASP is also considered safe to use while breastfeeding, and there are no restrictions on treatment during this period, as it presents no known risk to the baby. Your doctor or pharmacist can discuss the risks and benefits and may adjust your dose as needed.

Can FIASP FLEXTOUCH be taken with other medications?

Yes, but caution is advised as many medications can affect blood sugar levels, potentially requiring adjustments to your insulin dose.

• Medications that may increase the risk of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) include other antidiabetic agents, ACE inhibitors, certain antibiotics (sulfonamides), salicylates, and alcohol.
• Medications that may decrease the blood glucose-lowering effect (requiring more insulin) include corticosteroids, diuretics, oral contraceptives, thyroid hormones, and certain antipsychotics.
• Medications that can mask the symptoms of hypoglycemia include beta-blockers.
• Taking FIASP with thiazolidinediones (TZDs), another class of diabetes medication, may increase the risk of fluid retention and heart failure. Always inform your healthcare provider about all medicines, supplements, and herbal products you are taking.

What precautions should be taken when using FIASP FLEXTOUCH?

• Never share your FIASP FLEXTOUCH pen or needles with others, even if the needle is changed, to prevent the transmission of blood-borne pathogens and serious infections.
• Always check the insulin label before each injection to ensure you are using the correct type of insulin and to avoid medication errors.
• Rotate injection sites within the same chosen area (e.g., abdomen, thighs, upper arms) to reduce the risk of lipodystrophy or localized cutaneous amyloidosis.
• Monitor your blood glucose levels closely and frequently, especially when making changes to your insulin regimen, diet, physical activity, or during illness.
• Be aware of the symptoms of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) and always carry a source of fast-acting sugar (like glucose tablets or sugary drinks) to treat it immediately.
• Do not use FIASP if it appears cloudy, discolored, or if it has been frozen.
• Use with caution if you have kidney or liver problems, or if you have visual impairment and rely on audible clicks to dial your dose.

What happens if a dose of FIASP FLEXTOUCH is missed?

If you miss a mealtime dose of FIASP FLEXTOUCH, you should monitor your blood sugar levels to determine if an insulin dose is needed. Continue with your regular dosing schedule at the next meal. Do not take a double dose to make up for a forgotten dose. It is important to discuss with your healthcare provider what steps to take if you frequently miss doses.

How should FIASP FLEXTOUCH be stored?

Proper storage is crucial for maintaining the effectiveness of FIASP FLEXTOUCH.

• Unopened pens: Store in a refrigerator between 2°C and 8°C (36°F and 46°F) until the expiration date. If an unopened pen is stored outside the refrigerator at room temperature (up to 30°C or 86°F), it should be used within 4 weeks.
• Opened/In-use pens: Once opened, the FIASP FLEXTOUCH pen can be stored at room temperature (below 30°C or 86°F) or in the refrigerator (2°C to 8°C / 36°F to 46°F) for a maximum of 4 weeks (28 days).
• Always store the pen without the needle attached and keep the cap on to protect it from light.
• Do not freeze FIASP, and discard it if it has been frozen, as freezing can alter its effectiveness.