INSULATARD HM PENFILL 3 ML

How INSULATARD HM PENFILL 3 ML Works

• Insulatard HM Penfill 3 ml contains human insulin, a synthetic form of insulin that is identical to the insulin produced by the human body. Insulin is a crucial hormone responsible for regulating glucose (sugar) levels in the blood. It enables glucose to move from the bloodstream into cells, where it is used for energy.
• In individuals with diabetes, either the body does not produce enough insulin (Type 1 diabetes) or the cells become resistant to the effects of insulin (Type 2 diabetes). In both cases, glucose accumulates in the blood, leading to hyperglycemia (high blood sugar). Insulatard HM Penfill 3 ml helps to lower blood glucose levels by supplementing the body's own insulin supply, allowing glucose to enter cells and be used for energy.
• Insulatard HM Penfill 3 ml is an intermediate-acting insulin. This means that after injection, it starts to work within approximately 1.5 hours, and its effect lasts for up to 24 hours. The insulin in Insulatard HM Penfill is formulated as a suspension containing insulin crystals. These crystals slowly dissolve after injection, providing a gradual and prolonged release of insulin into the bloodstream. This helps to provide a basal (background) level of insulin throughout the day, mimicking the natural insulin secretion pattern of the pancreas.
• When injected subcutaneously (under the skin), Insulatard HM Penfill 3 ml forms a depot of insulin crystals. As these crystals slowly dissolve, insulin is absorbed into the bloodstream. The rate of absorption can be influenced by factors such as the injection site, the depth of injection, and the individual's physical activity. Regular monitoring of blood glucose levels is essential to determine the optimal dosage and timing of Insulatard HM Penfill 3 ml to achieve adequate glycemic control.
• By providing a sustained release of insulin, Insulatard HM Penfill 3 ml helps to maintain stable blood glucose levels between meals and during the night. It is often used in combination with a rapid-acting insulin to cover insulin requirements at meal times. Consistent use of Insulatard HM Penfill 3 ml, as prescribed by a healthcare professional, along with a healthy diet and regular exercise, is crucial for effective diabetes management and preventing long-term complications associated with hyperglycemia.

Like all medicines, Insulatard HM Penfill can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them. **Very Common (may affect more than 1 in 10 people):** * Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). This can occur if you take too much insulin, miss a meal, or exercise more than usual. Symptoms may include cold sweat, cool pale skin, headache, rapid heartbeat, nausea, feeling very hungry, temporary vision changes, drowsiness, unusual tiredness and weakness, nervousness or tremor, feeling anxious, feeling confused, difficulty concentrating. **Common (may affect up to 1 in 10 people):** * Injection site reactions: Redness, swelling, itching, or pain at the injection site. * Lipodystrophy: (Pitting at the injection site). If you inject insulin repeatedly in the same place, the fatty tissue under the skin may shrink (lipoatrophy) or thicken (lipohypertrophy). Changing the injection site with each injection may help to prevent these skin changes. **Uncommon (may affect up to 1 in 100 people):** * Allergic reactions: Local allergic reactions (redness, swelling, or itching at the injection site) can occur. More serious allergic reactions (generalized rash, itching, sweating, gastrointestinal upset, angioneurotic edema, difficulties in breathing, palpitation, reduction in blood pressure, and fainting/loss of consciousness) are very rare but can be life-threatening. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of these symptoms. * Edema: Swelling of ankles and other joints. **Rare (may affect up to 1 in 1,000 people):** * Diabetic retinopathy: (An eye disease related to diabetes that can lead to vision loss). **Very Rare (may affect up to 1 in 10,000 people):** * Neuropathy (Nerve Pain): If your blood sugar levels improve very quickly, you may get nerve-related pain. **Other Possible Side Effects:** * Weight gain: Insulin can cause water retention and weight gain. * Vision changes: Changes in blood sugar control can cause temporary vision changes. If you have diabetic retinopathy, it can worsen.

• If you miss a dose of Insulatard HM Penfill, take it as soon as you remember, but ensure there is a sufficient gap before your next scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose to compensate for the missed one, as this can lead to hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). Monitor your blood sugar levels regularly and adjust your subsequent doses as needed, in consultation with your doctor.

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

• **Understand Your Insulin Needs:** Insulatard HM Penfill is an intermediate-acting insulin. Work closely with your doctor or diabetes educator to determine the correct dosage and timing for your individual needs. Factors like diet, exercise, and stress can influence your insulin requirements, so regular monitoring and adjustments are essential.
• **Master the Injection Technique:** Proper injection technique is crucial for effective insulin delivery. Always use a new needle for each injection to ensure sterility and minimize discomfort. Rotate injection sites (abdomen, thigh, upper arm) to prevent lipohypertrophy (thickening of the skin), which can affect insulin absorption. Inject the insulin into the subcutaneous tissue (the layer of fat under the skin), not into muscle.
• **Monitor Blood Glucose Regularly:** Frequent blood glucose monitoring is key to managing diabetes effectively. Check your blood sugar levels before meals, after meals, and at bedtime, or as directed by your healthcare provider. Record your readings and note any patterns or trends. This information will help you and your doctor adjust your insulin dosage and meal plan as needed.
• **Store Insulatard HM Penfill Correctly:** Proper storage is essential to maintain the potency of your insulin. Store unopened Insulatard HM Penfill cartridges in the refrigerator (2°C to 8°C). Once in use, the Penfill can be stored at room temperature (up to 25°C) for up to 6 weeks, away from direct heat and light. Do not freeze insulin. Discard any insulin that has been frozen or exposed to extreme temperatures.
• **Recognize and Treat Hypoglycemia:** Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) is a common side effect of insulin therapy. Be aware of the symptoms of hypoglycemia, such as shakiness, sweating, dizziness, hunger, and confusion. Always carry a source of fast-acting carbohydrate, such as glucose tablets or fruit juice, to treat hypoglycemia promptly. If you experience frequent or severe episodes of hypoglycemia, talk to your doctor about adjusting your insulin dosage or meal plan.

• The timing of your meals and insulin dose is very important. Insulatard HM Penfill 3 ml should be taken 30 minutes before a meal.
• Maintain a consistent carbohydrate intake with each meal to avoid fluctuations in blood sugar levels.
• Consult your doctor or diabetes educator for personalized dietary advice regarding insulin use.