HUMALOG MIX 25 PENFILL 3 ML

How HUMALOG MIX 25 PENFILL 3 ML Works

• HUMALOG MIX 25 PENFILL 3 ML is a premixed insulin formulation designed to help manage blood sugar levels in individuals with diabetes. It contains two types of insulin: insulin lispro (a rapid-acting insulin analog) and insulin lispro protamine suspension (an intermediate-acting insulin analog). Understanding how each component works is crucial to understanding the overall action of HUMALOG MIX 25.
• Insulin lispro, the rapid-acting component, begins to work very quickly after injection, typically within 15 minutes. Its primary function is to cover the rise in blood sugar that occurs after meals. When you eat, your body breaks down carbohydrates into glucose, which enters the bloodstream. Insulin lispro helps your cells absorb this glucose from the blood, thereby lowering your blood sugar level. Because it acts so quickly, it is usually taken shortly before or after starting a meal, mimicking the natural insulin response of a healthy pancreas.
• The other component, insulin lispro protamine suspension, is an intermediate-acting insulin. It has been modified with protamine to slow down its absorption into the bloodstream. This delayed absorption results in a longer duration of action, providing a background level of insulin that helps to control blood sugar levels between meals and overnight. The protamine allows for a gradual release of insulin lispro, ensuring a more sustained effect compared to the rapid-acting component alone.
• The '25' in HUMALOG MIX 25 indicates the percentage of rapid-acting insulin (insulin lispro) in the mixture, which is 25%. The remaining 75% is the intermediate-acting insulin lispro protamine suspension. This specific ratio is designed to provide both immediate mealtime coverage and sustained background insulin activity, offering a balanced approach to blood sugar control.
• By combining these two types of insulin, HUMALOG MIX 25 PENFILL 3 ML aims to simplify diabetes management by reducing the number of injections needed. It provides a convenient way to address both the immediate blood sugar spikes after meals and the baseline insulin requirements throughout the day. The pen device further enhances ease of use and accuracy in dosing.
• In summary, HUMALOG MIX 25 PENFILL 3 ML works by leveraging the rapid action of insulin lispro to manage post-meal glucose surges and the prolonged action of insulin lispro protamine suspension to maintain stable blood sugar levels between meals and during the night. This combination helps individuals with diabetes achieve better overall glycemic control.

Like all medicines, Humalog Mix25 Penfill can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them. **Common side effects (may affect up to 1 in 10 people):** * Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar): This is the most frequent side effect. Severe hypoglycemia can lead to unconsciousness and, in very rare circumstances, may be fatal. * Local allergy: Redness, swelling, or itching at the injection site. * Lipodystrophy: The skin under the injection site may either thicken or shrink. **Uncommon side effects (may affect up to 1 in 100 people):** * Systemic allergy: Generalized allergic reaction. **Rare side effects (may affect up to 1 in 1,000 people):** * Edema (swelling), particularly of the ankles and feet, due to fluid retention. **Other possible side effects:** * Weight gain * Numbness, tingling * Changes in vision **Important considerations:** * Always carry a source of sugar with you. * If you experience any of the above side effects, especially a severe allergic reaction or repeated episodes of hypoglycemia, contact your doctor immediately. * Injection site reactions can sometimes occur. Rotate injection sites to help prevent skin changes such as pitting, thickening of the skin, or lumps under the skin.

• If you miss a dose of Humalog Mix 25 Penfill, take it as soon as you remember, but only if it is within 1-2 hours of your usual mealtime. If it is almost time for your next meal, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for the missed dose, as this can increase the risk of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). Monitor your blood sugar levels regularly and adjust your insulin dose or meal plan as needed, in consultation with your doctor.

• Keep HUMALOG MIX 25 PENFILL 3ML away from the reach of children and pets.
• Store HUMALOG MIX 25 PENFILL 3ML in a refrigerator (2 - 8°C). Do not freeze.

• **Understand Your Insulin Needs:** Humalog Mix 25 Penfill contains a mix of rapid-acting (lispro) and intermediate-acting insulin. Work closely with your doctor or diabetes educator to determine the right dosage and timing for your individual needs, considering factors like your diet, activity level, and blood sugar readings.
• **Proper Storage is Key:** Store unopened Humalog Mix 25 Penfill cartridges in the refrigerator (2°C to 8°C). Once in use, the Penfill can be stored at room temperature (up to 30°C) for up to 28 days. Discard any Penfill after 28 days, even if it still contains insulin. Avoid exposure to direct heat or sunlight.
• **Master the Injection Technique:** Always inject Humalog Mix 25 Penfill subcutaneously (under the skin) in areas recommended by your healthcare provider, such as the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm. Rotate injection sites to prevent lipohypertrophy (thickening of the skin). Use a new needle for each injection to ensure sterility and minimize discomfort.
• **Monitor Your Blood Sugar Regularly:** Consistent blood sugar monitoring is crucial for managing diabetes effectively. Check your blood sugar levels before meals, two hours after meals, and at bedtime, or as directed by your healthcare provider. Keep a record of your readings to help you and your doctor adjust your insulin dosage as needed. Be aware of the signs and symptoms of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) and hyperglycemia (high blood sugar).
• **Be Prepared for Emergencies:** Always carry a glucagon emergency kit and fast-acting carbohydrates (such as glucose tablets or juice) with you in case of hypoglycemia. Educate your family and friends about how to recognize and treat hypoglycemia. Wear a medical identification bracelet or necklace indicating that you have diabetes and are taking insulin.

• Timing of Insulin Injection and Meals: You should eat a meal within 15 minutes of injecting Humalog Mix25. This is because Humalog Mix25 starts working very quickly to lower your blood sugar.
• Consistency of Meals: Try to eat consistent meals in terms of carbohydrate content and timing. This helps to better match your insulin dose to your food intake and avoid fluctuations in blood sugar levels.
• Impact of Skipping Meals: Skipping meals after injecting Humalog Mix25 can lead to hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). Always ensure you eat after taking your injection.
• Alcohol Consumption: Alcohol can affect your blood sugar levels. It can initially cause them to rise and later cause them to drop, especially if you are not eating. If you consume alcohol, do so in moderation and monitor your blood sugar levels closely.
• High-Fat Foods: High-fat foods can delay the absorption of insulin, which might affect how quickly Humalog Mix25 works. Be mindful of the fat content in your meals.
• Changes in Diet: Any significant changes in your diet (e.g., increasing fiber intake or switching to a low-carbohydrate diet) can affect your blood sugar levels and may require adjustments to your Humalog Mix25 dosage. Consult your healthcare provider for guidance.
• Illness: During illness, your appetite and food intake might change. Continue to monitor your blood sugar levels closely and adjust your insulin dose as needed, in consultation with your healthcare provider.