Actrapid Penfill Insulin (100U/ml) 3ml x 5 Cartridges
Code: 272957_5
This product is a Prescription Only Medicine (S4) and is sold by Healthylife Pharmacy, an independently owned and operated pharmacy business. This prescription product requires a valid Australian script.
Select a Price:
$25.00
Choose delivery option
Trending Products
Product Overview
|
Actrapid Penfill 3ml Injection contains human insulin and is used to treat diabetes. Diabetes is a condition where your pacreas does not produce enough insulin to control your blood sugar (glucose) level. Extra Insulin is therefore needed. A prescription is required for Actrapid.
|
Actrapid® Penfill®
Protaphane® Penfill®
Mixtard® 30/70 Penfill®
Mixtard® 50/50 Penfill®
Human insulin (rys)
Consumer Medicine Information
What is in this leaflet
What is in this leaflet
What human insulin is used for
Before you use human insulin Penfill®
How to use human insulin Penfill®
While you are using human insulin
Penfill®
Side effects
After using human insulin Penfill®
Product description
Further information
This leaflet answers some common questions about human insulin Penfill®. It does not
contain all the available information. It does not take the place of talking to your doctor,
diabetes education nurse or pharmacist. All medicines have risks and benefits. Your
doctor has weighed the risks of you using human insulin against the benefits they
expect it will have for you.
If you have any concerns about using this medicine, ask your doctor, diabetes
education nurse or pharmacist.
Keep this leaflet with the medicine. You may need to read it again.
What human insulin is used for
Human insulin is used to treat diabetes mellitus. Diabetes mellitus is a condition
where your pancreas does not produce enough insulin to control your blood sugar
(glucose) level. Extra insulin is therefore needed.
There are two types of diabetes mellitus:
Type 1 diabetes – also called juvenile onset diabetes
Type 2 diabetes – also called maturity onset diabetes
Patients with type 1 diabetes always require insulin to control their blood sugar levels.
Some patients with type 2 diabetes may also require insulin after initial treatment with
diet, exercise and tablets.
Human insulin lowers your blood sugar level after injection. Each of the following human
insulins is available in Penfill®, a 3mL glass cartridge designed to be used with Novo
Nordisk insulin delivery devices such as NovoPen®:
Actrapid® is Neutral Insulin Injection, a fastacting insulin. This means that it will start to
lower your blood sugar level about half an hour after you inject it, and the effect will
last for approximately 8 hours. Actrapid® is often used in combination with longer-acting
insulin products.
Protaphane® is Isophane Insulin Injection, an intermediate-acting insulin. This means
that it will start to lower your blood sugar level about one and a half hours after you
inject it, and the effect will last for approximately 24 hours. Protaphane® is
often used in combination with fast- or rapidacting insulin products.
Mixtard® 30/70 and Mixtard® 50/50 are Biphasic Isophane Insulin Injection, and each
is a mixture of fast- and longer-acting insulins. Mixtard® 30/70 and Mixtard®
50/50 will start to lower your blood sugar level about half an hour after you inject, and
the effect will last for approximately 24 hours.
As with all insulins, the duration of action will vary according to the type of insulin, the
dose, injection site, blood flow, temperature and level of physical activity.
Actrapid® is also used by doctors to treat some people with diabetes in emergency
situations.
Human insulin is not addictive.
Human insulin is available only with a doctor’s prescription.
Ask your doctor if you have any questions about why human insulin Penfill® has
been prescribed for you.
Before you use human insulin Penfill®
When you must not use it
Do not use Penfill® if:
1. you have an allergy to:
- any medicine containing insulin
- any of the ingredients listed in the
“Ingredients” section of this leaflet
Some of the symptoms of an allergic reaction may include:
- redness, swelling, rash and itching at the injection site;
- rash, itching or hives on the skin;
- shortness of breath;
- wheezing or difficulty breathing;
- swelling of the face, lips, tongue or other parts of the body.
2. you are experiencing a low blood sugar level (a “hypo”) when the dose is due.
If you have a lot of hypos discuss appropriate treatment with your doctor.
If you are not sure whether you should start using this medicine, talk to your doctor.
Do not inject Protaphane®, Mixtard® 30/70 or Mixtard® 50/50 into a vein.
Do not use Protaphane®, Mixtard® 30/70 or Mixtard® 50/50 to treat a condition
known as diabetic ketoacidotic coma.
Do not use this medicine after the expiry date printed on the label and carton, or if
the packaging is torn or shows signs of tampering or does not look quite right.
If it has expired or is damaged, return it to your pharmacist for disposal.
Before you start to use it
Tell your doctor if you have allergies to any other medicines, foods, preservatives
or dyes. Tell your doctor if you have or have had any medical conditions,
especially the following:
• kidney problems
• liver problems
• adrenal, pituitary or thyroid gland problems
Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant.
Pregnancy may make managing your diabetes more difficult. Insulin needs usually
decrease during the first three months of pregnancy and increase during the last six
months. Your doctor can discuss with you the risks and benefits involved.
Tell your doctor if you are breast-feeding or planning to breast-feed.
Your doctor or pharmacist can discuss with you the risks and benefits involved.
Inform your doctor as soon as possible if you experience signs of heart failure such
as unusual shortness of breath or rapid increase in weight or localized swelling
(oedema).
Some patients with long-standing type 2 diabetes mellitus and heart disease or previous stroke who are treated with thiazolidinediones in combination with insulin may develop heart failure.
If you have not told your doctor about any of the above, tell them before you use
Penfill®.
Taking other medicines
Tell your doctor if you are taking any other medicines, including any that you
get without a prescription from your pharmacy, supermarket or health food
shop.
Some medicines and human insulin may interfere with each other. These include:
• oral hypoglycaemic agents - used to treat type 2 diabetes
• monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOI) - used to treat depression
• non-selective beta-blockers - used to treat certain heart conditions and high
blood pressure
• alpha-blockers - used to treat high blood pressure and to relieve difficulty in
passing urine caused by an enlarged prostate
• angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors - used to treat certain heart
conditions, high blood pressure or elevated protein/albumin in the urine
• salicylates e.g. aspirin - used to relieve pain and lower fever
• anabolic steroids – used to promote growth
• glucocorticoids (except when applied locally) – used to treat inflammatory conditions
• oral contraceptives (“the pill”) - used for birth control
• thiazides, frusemide or ethacrynic acid - used to treat high blood pressure or fluid
retention (oedema)
• thyroid hormones - used to treat malfunction of the thyroid gland
• sympathomimetics - used to treat asthma
• sulphonamides – used to treat bacterial infections
Or other specific medicines including:
• danazol - used to treat certain female conditions
• oxymetholone – used to treat certain blood disorders
• octreotide - used to treat gastrointestinal endocrine tumours and enlargement of
parts of the body (e.g. hands, feet, head) caused by abnormal growth hormone levels
• lanreotide – used to treat enlargement of parts of the body (e.g. hands, feet, head)
caused by abnormal growth hormone levels
• diazoxide - used to treat high blood pressure
• nicotinic acid - used to treat high cholesterol levels in the blood
• asparaginase - used to treat leukaemia and lymph gland tumours
• quinine – used to treat malaria and relieve muscle cramps
• quinidine – used to treat heart problems
• growth hormone – used to treat growth disorders
Tell your doctor about any other medicines that you are taking.
This is very important. Your doctor will advise you if it is alright to keep taking them
or if you should stop taking them.
Your doctor and pharmacist have more information on medicines to be careful with
or avoid while using this medicine.
How to use human insulin Penfill®
Your doctor, diabetes education nurse or pharmacist will have given you advice on
how to use your medicine. Carefully follow all the directions.
They may differ from the information contained in this leaflet.
Any change in dose or type of insulin should be made cautiously and only under
medical supervision.
If you change the type of insulin that you use, you may have to use more or less than
before. This may happen with the first dose or over a period of time.
If you do not understand the instructions, ask your doctor, diabetes education nurse
or pharmacist for help.
How much to use
Your doctor or diabetes education nurse will tell you how much of this medicine you need
to use.
It is very important that you manage your diabetes carefully. Too much or too little insulin can cause serious effects.
When to use it
Your doctor or diabetes education nurse will tell you when and how often to inject the
insulin. If you are using Actrapid®, Mixtard® 30/70 or Mixtard® 50/50, it is
recommended that you eat a meal or a snack containing carbohydrate within 30 minutes of
the injection.
How to use it
• Penfill® cartridges are designed to be used with Novo Nordisk insulin delivery
devices (such as NovoPen®), and NovoFine® or NovoTwist® needles.
• Make sure you are using the correct type and strength of insulin. Carefully follow
the instructions on how to use your Penfill® in the Novo Nordisk insulin
delivery device.
• If you use more than one type of Penfill® (more than one type of insulin),
you must use a separate insulin delivery device for each type of Penfill®.
• Do not use the insulin level indicator on the device to measure your dose of
insulin.
• You should inject human insulin under the skin (subcutaneous injection) as
shown to you by your doctor or diabetes education nurse.
• In an emergency, the insulin contained within Actrapid® Penfill® is suitable for
intramuscular administration under medical guidance. In an emergency, the
insulin contained within Actrapid® Penfill® is also suitable for intravenous
administration, but only if administered by a physician. For emergency use, the
insulin must first be withdrawn from Penfill® into a syringe. Discard your
Penfill® after emergency use.
• In an emergency, the insulins contained within Protaphane®, Mixtard® 30/70
and Mixtard® 50/50 Penfill® are suitable for intramuscular administration
under medical guidance. For emergency use, the resuspended insulin must first be
withdrawn from Penfill® into a syringe.
Discard your Penfill® after emergency use.
• Do not use Penfill® in insulin pumps.
• Take care not to drop or knock the device that contains Penfill®.
Checking your human insulin Penfill®:
Check your Penfill® before each preparation and injection to make sure
you are using the correct type and strength of insulin. Disinfect the rubber
membrane with a medicinal swab.
Do not use your Actrapid® Penfill® unless the insulin appears clear and colourless.
Do not use it if the insulin appears thickened or has bits in it.
Do not use your Protaphane®, Mixtard® 30/70 or Mixtard® 50/50 Penfill® if the
insulin is no longer a cloudy, white suspension after shaking, or if it has bits in
it.
Always check your Penfill®, including the rubber plunger (stopper). Do not use your
Penfill® if any damage is seen or if there is a gap between the plunger and the white
label band.
If these observations are noted, return your Penfill® to your pharmacist. See the insulin
delivery device user manual for further instructions.
Preparing a dose:
1. Wash your hands.
IMPORTANT - If your Penfill® contains cloudy insulin please read and follow points 2-5 carefully:
2. On the Penfill® cartridge is a coloured band. Do not start an injection with a Penfill® cartridge you have emptied beyond the coloured band. The glass ball must have adequate space to resuspend the insulin. Resuspending is easier when the insulin has reached room temperature.
3. Before you put Penfill® into the Novo Nordisk insulin delivery device, move it up and down between positions a and b, so that the glass ball in the cartridge moves from one end to the other at least 20 times. The movement must always be repeated until the liquid appears uniformly white and cloudy (‘resuspended’).
4. If Penfill® is already inside the Novo Nordisk insulin delivery device, turn the delivery device upside-down at least 10 times with the cartridge inside it. Do this again before each subsequent injection.
5. Complete the remaining stages of injection without delay.
Checking for insulin flow (priming):
Always check your Novo Nordisk insulin delivery device for insulin flow (priming)
before each injection, as described in the device user manual.
The priming procedure may highlight a malfunction with your insulin delivery device. Priming also removes any air bubbles and helps indicate whether or not a needle is broken.
Only dial up your required dose after you see a drop of insulin at the needle tip.
After priming, if you need to put the insulin delivery device down, make sure the needle
does not touch anything.
Injecting a dose:
Choose a site for injection.
Inject the medicine into the abdomen, thighs, upper arms or buttocks.
Your insulin will work more quickly if you inject into the abdomen.
Change the injection site so that the same position is not used more often than once a month.
This will reduce the chance of local skin reactions developing.
Pinch the skin between two fingers, push the needle into the raised skin, and inject
the full dose of insulin under the skin.
Slowly count to 6 before pulling the needle out.
Apply gentle pressure over the injection site for several seconds.
Do not rub the area.
After injecting:
Dispose of your used needle safely into a yellow plastic sharps container after each
injection.
If you are using Actrapid® or Mixtard® insulins, it is recommended that you eat a
meal or a snack containing carbohydrate within 30 minutes of the injection.
Do not share needles, insulin cartridges or insulin delivery devices.
How long to use it
Do not stop using human insulin unless your doctor tells you to.
If you use too much (overdose) -
Hypoglycaemia
Your blood sugar level may become too low (you may experience hypoglycaemia or a
“hypo”) if you:
• accidentally use too much of this medicine
• have too much or unexpected exercise
• delay eating meals or snacks
• eat too little food
• are ill
The first symptoms of mild to moderate hypos can come on suddenly. They may
include:
• cold sweat, cool pale skin
• fatigue, drowsiness, unusual tiredness and weakness
• nervousness, anxious feeling tremor, rapid heart beat
• confusion, difficulty concentrating
• excessive hunger
• vision changes
• headache, nausea
Always carry some sugary food or fruit juice with you.
If you experience any of these symptoms of a hypo, immediately eat some sugary food or
have a sugary drink e.g. lollies, biscuits or fruit juice.
Do not inject any insulin if you feel a hypo coming on.
Tell your relatives, friends, close workmates or carers that you have
diabetes. It is important that they recognise the signs and symptoms of a
hypo.
Make sure they know to give you some sugary food or fruit juice for mild to
moderate symptoms of a hypo.
If you lose consciousness, make sure they know:
• to turn you on your side and get medical help immediately.
• not to give you anything to eat or drink.
This is because you could choke.
An injection of the hormone glucagon may speed up recovery from unconsciousness.
This can be given by a relative, friend, workmate or carer who knows how to give it.
If glucagon is used, eat some sugary food or have a sugary drink as soon as you are
conscious again.
If you do not feel better after this, contact your doctor, diabetes education nurse, or the
closest hospital.
If you do not respond to glucagon treatment, you will require medical attention.
See your doctor if you keep having hypo reactions, or if you have ever become
unconscious after using insulin.
Your insulin dose may need to be changed.
If a severe hypo is not treated, it can cause convulsions, brain damage and even death.
If you miss a dose – Hyperglycamia
If you forget to inject your insulin dose, test your blood sugar level as soon as
possible.
If you are not sure what to do, talk to your doctor, diabetes education nurse or
pharmacist.
Do not use a double dose of your insulin.
If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the dose you missed and use your next dose
when you are meant to.
Otherwise, use it as soon as you remember and then go back to using it as you would
normally.
Your blood sugar levels may become high (hyperglycaemia) if you:
• miss doses of insulin or use less insulin than you need
• have uncontrolled diabetes
• exercise less than usual
• eat more carbohydrates than usual
• are ill or stressed
High blood sugar levels over a long period of time can lead to too much acid in the blood
(diabetic ketoacidosis).
Contact your doctor immediately if your blood sugar level is high or you recognise
any of the following symptoms.
Symptoms of mild to moderate hyperglycaemia include:
• drowsy feeling
• flushed face
• thirst, loss of appetite
• fruity odour on the breath
• blurred vision
• passing larger amounts of urine than usual
• getting up at night more often than usual to pass urine
• high levels of glucose and acetone in the urine
Symptoms of severe hyperglycaemia include:
• heavy breathing
• fast pulse
• nausea, vomiting
• dehydration
• loss of consciousness
Severe hyperglycaemia can lead to unconsciousness and in extreme cases death
if untreated.
Discuss any worries you may have about this with your doctor, diabetes education
nurse or pharmacist.
While you are using human insulin Penfill®
Things you must do
Measure your blood sugar level regularly.
Make sure all friends, relatives, workmates or carers know that you have
diabetes.
If your child has diabetes it is important to tell their carers.
Keep using your insulin even if you feel well.
It helps to control your condition, but does not cure it.
Tell your doctor if you often have hypos (low blood sugar levels).
Your doctor may need to adjust your insulin dose.
Always carry some sugary food or fruit juice with you.
If you experience any of the symptoms of a hypo, immediately eat some sugary food or
have a sugary drink e.g. lollies, biscuits or fruit juice.
Tell your doctor if you have trouble recognising the symptoms of hypos.
Under certain conditions, the early warning signs of hypos can be different or less
obvious. Your doctor may need to adjust your insulin dose.
Make sure that you tell every doctor, dentist, pharmacist or other health care
professional who is treating you that you have diabetes and are using insulin.
Tell your doctor, diabetes education nurse or pharmacist if you are travelling.
Ask them for a letter explaining why you are taking injecting devices with you. Each
country you visit will need to see this letter, so you should take several copies.
You may need to inject your insulin and eat your meals at different times because of time
differences in and between countries.
You may not be able to get the same type of insulin in the country you are visiting.
Your doctor, diabetes education nurse or pharmacist can provide you with some
helpful information.
Things you must not do
Do not stop using your medicine unless your doctor tells you to.
Do not use the medicine if you think it has been frozen or exposed to excessive heat.
It will not work as well.
Do not refill your Penfill®.
Do not use this medicine to treat any other complaints unless your doctor tells you to.
Do not give your medicine to anyone else, even if they have the same condition as
you.
Things to be careful of
Be careful driving or operating machinery until you know how the insulin affects you.
Tell your doctor if you drink alcohol.
Alcohol may mask the symptoms of hypos.
Tell your doctor if you are ill.
Illness, especially with nausea and vomiting, may cause your insulin needs to change.
Even if you are not eating, you still require insulin. You and your doctor should design
an insulin plan for those times when you are sick.
Tell your doctor if you are exercising more than usual.
Exercise may lower your need for this medicine. Exercise may also speed up the
effect of a dose of it, especially if the exercise involves the area of the injection site
(e.g. the leg should not be used for injection prior to jogging or running).
Tell your doctor if your diet changes.
Changes in diet may cause your insulin needs to change.
Side effects
Tell your doctor, diabetes education nurse or pharmacist as soon as possible if you do not feel well while you are using human insulin.
This medicine helps most people for whom it is prescribed, but it may have unwanted side
effects in a few people. All medicines can have side effects. Sometimes they are
serious, most of the time they are not. You may need medical treatment if you get some
of the side effects.
Do not be alarmed by the following lists of side effects. You may not experience any of
them.
Ask your doctor, diabetes education nurse= or pharmacist to answer any questions
you may have.
The most common side effect when using insulin is low blood sugar levels (a hypo).
Tell your doctor if you notice any of the following and they worry you:
• hypos (mild to moderate)
• redness, swelling or itching at the injection site. Usually these symptoms
disappear within a few weeks during continued use. If you have serious or
continuing reactions, you may need to stop using your current insulin and use
another insulin.
• a depression or thickening of the skin around the injection site (lipodystrophy)
• when you first start your insulin treatment you may get visual problems
or swollen hands and feet
This list includes the more common side effects of your medicine. They are usually
mild and short-lived.
If any of the following happen, tell your doctor immediately or go to Accident and
Emergency at your nearest hospital:
More severe symptoms of low blood sugar levels, including:
• disorientation
• seizures, fits or convulsions
• loss of consciousness.
If a severe hypo is not treated, it can cause brain damage and death.
Tell your doctor immediately or go to Accident and Emergency at your nearest
hospital if you notice any of the following:
• skin rashes over a large part of the body
• shortness of breath, wheezing
• swelling of the face, lips or tongue
• fast pulse
• sweating
This list includes very serious side effects.
You may need urgent medical attention or hospitalisation. These side effects are very
rare.
Tell your doctor if you notice anything that is making you feel unwell.
Other side effects not listed above may also occur in some people.
Ask your doctor, diabetes education nurse or pharmacist to answer any questions
you have.
After using human insulin Penfill®
Storage
Penfill® that are not being used should be stored between 2°C and 8°C in the
refrigerator (away from the cooling element).
Protect the insulin in Penfill® from light by keeping the cartridges in the carton
when not in use.
The Penfill® that you are using in your device, or that you are carrying as a spare,
does not need to be kept in a refrigerator.
You can use it for up to 4 weeks after taking it out of the refrigerator if it is kept below
25ºC. Discard Penfill® after 4 weeks even if there is still some insulin left in it.
Penfill® must not be frozen, or exposed to excessive heat or light.
Never use insulin after the expiry date printed on the label and carton after
‘Expiry’.
The expiry date refers to the last day of that month.
Never use Actrapid® Penfill® if the solution is not clear and colourless.
Never use Protaphane®, Mixtard® 30/70 or Mixtard® 50/50 Penfill® if the
suspension does not become white and uniformly cloudy after shaking.
Keep out of the reach of children.
Disposal
Dispose of your needles safely into a yellow plastic sharps container.
If your doctor tells you to stop using this medicine or the expiry date has passed,
ask your pharmacist what to do with any medicine that is left over.
Product description
What it looks like
A coloured band is located on the Penfill® cartridge. The colour of the band is specific
for the insulin preparation.
Actrapid® is a clear, colourless solution for subcutaneous injection.
Actrapid® Penfill® 3mL is a glass cartridge.
Protaphane®, Mixtard® 30/70 and Mixtard® 50/50 are white, cloudy suspensions for
subcutaneous injection. Protaphane®, Mixtard® 30/70 and Mixtard® 50/50
Penfill® 3mL are glass cartridges.
Ingredients
Human insulin (rys) is characterised by being identical to natural human insulin. The
abbreviation “rys” indicates the method of genetic engineering used to manufacture the
insulin.
Actrapid® is a neutral solution of human insulin (rys) 100 IU/mL. Also contains:
glycerol, meta-cresol, zinc chloride, water for injections. Hydrochloric acid and sodium
hydroxide are used to adjust the pH.
Protaphane® is a neutral suspension of isophane human insulin (rys) 100 IU/mL.
Also contains: glycerol, meta-cresol, phenol, dibasic sodium phosphate dihydrate, zinc
chloride, protamine sulfate, water for injections. Hydrochloric acid and sodium
hydroxide are used to adjust the pH.
Mixtard® 30/70 is a pre-mixed neutral suspension of human insulin (rys) 100
IU/mL, consisting of neutral insulin injection (30%) and isophane insulin injection (70%).
Also contains: glycerol, meta-cresol, phenol, dibasic sodium phosphate dihydrate, zinc
chloride, protamine sulfate, water for injections. Hydrochloric acid and sodium
hydroxide are used to adjust the pH.
Mixtard® 50/50 is a pre-mixed neutral suspension of human insulin (rys) 100
IU/mL, consisting of neutral insulin injection (50%) and isophane insulin injection (50%).
Also contains: glycerol, meta-cresol, phenol, dibasic sodium phosphate dihydrate, zinc
chloride, protamine sulfate, water for injections. Hydrochloric acid and sodium
hydroxide are used to adjust the pH.
Sponsor
Penfill® is supplied in Australia by:
Novo Nordisk Pharmaceuticals Pty Ltd
Level 3
21 Solent Circuit
Baulkham Hills NSW 2153.
This leaflet was prepared on 30 August 2012.
Australian Registration Numbers:
Actrapid® Penfill® 3mL: AUST R 169623
Protaphane® Penfill® 3mL: AUST R 169635
Mixtard® 30/70 Penfill® 3mL: AUST R 169629
Mixtard® 50/50 Penfill® 3mL: AUST R 169630
Penfill®, NovoFine®, NovoTwist®, NovoPen®, Actrapid®, Protaphane®,
Mixtard® and NovoCare® are registered trademarks of Novo Nordisk A/S.
© 2012
Further information
For further information call the NovoCare®
Customer Care Centre on 1800 668 626.
www.novonordisk.com.au
You can also get more information about diabetes and insulin from Diabetes Australia:
• freecall helpline 1300 136 588
Healthylife provides general product information such as nutritional information, country of origin and product packaging for your convenience. This information is intended as a guide only, including because products change from time to time. Please read product labels before consuming. For therapeutic goods, always read the label and follow the directions for use on pack. If you require specific information to assist with your purchasing decision, we recommend that you contact the manufacturer via the contact details on the packaging or email us at care@healthylife.com.au. Product ratings and reviews are taken from various sources including Bazaarvoice. Healthylife does not represent or warrant the accuracy of any statements, claims or opinions made in product ratings and reviews.
Actrapid Penfill Insulin (100U/ml) 3ml x 5 Cartridges
This product is a Prescription Only Medicine (S4) and is sold by Healthylife Pharmacy, an independently owned and operated pharmacy business. This prescription product requires a valid Australian script.
Select a Price:
$25.00
Choose delivery option
Product Overview
|
Actrapid Penfill 3ml Injection contains human insulin and is used to treat diabetes. Diabetes is a condition where your pacreas does not produce enough insulin to control your blood sugar (glucose) level. Extra Insulin is therefore needed. A prescription is required for Actrapid.
|
Actrapid® Penfill®
Protaphane® Penfill®
Mixtard® 30/70 Penfill®
Mixtard® 50/50 Penfill®
Human insulin (rys)
Consumer Medicine Information
What is in this leaflet
What is in this leaflet
What human insulin is used for
Before you use human insulin Penfill®
How to use human insulin Penfill®
While you are using human insulin
Penfill®
Side effects
After using human insulin Penfill®
Product description
Further information
This leaflet answers some common questions about human insulin Penfill®. It does not
contain all the available information. It does not take the place of talking to your doctor,
diabetes education nurse or pharmacist. All medicines have risks and benefits. Your
doctor has weighed the risks of you using human insulin against the benefits they
expect it will have for you.
If you have any concerns about using this medicine, ask your doctor, diabetes
education nurse or pharmacist.
Keep this leaflet with the medicine. You may need to read it again.
What human insulin is used for
Human insulin is used to treat diabetes mellitus. Diabetes mellitus is a condition
where your pancreas does not produce enough insulin to control your blood sugar
(glucose) level. Extra insulin is therefore needed.
There are two types of diabetes mellitus:
Type 1 diabetes – also called juvenile onset diabetes
Type 2 diabetes – also called maturity onset diabetes
Patients with type 1 diabetes always require insulin to control their blood sugar levels.
Some patients with type 2 diabetes may also require insulin after initial treatment with
diet, exercise and tablets.
Human insulin lowers your blood sugar level after injection. Each of the following human
insulins is available in Penfill®, a 3mL glass cartridge designed to be used with Novo
Nordisk insulin delivery devices such as NovoPen®:
Actrapid® is Neutral Insulin Injection, a fastacting insulin. This means that it will start to
lower your blood sugar level about half an hour after you inject it, and the effect will
last for approximately 8 hours. Actrapid® is often used in combination with longer-acting
insulin products.
Protaphane® is Isophane Insulin Injection, an intermediate-acting insulin. This means
that it will start to lower your blood sugar level about one and a half hours after you
inject it, and the effect will last for approximately 24 hours. Protaphane® is
often used in combination with fast- or rapidacting insulin products.
Mixtard® 30/70 and Mixtard® 50/50 are Biphasic Isophane Insulin Injection, and each
is a mixture of fast- and longer-acting insulins. Mixtard® 30/70 and Mixtard®
50/50 will start to lower your blood sugar level about half an hour after you inject, and
the effect will last for approximately 24 hours.
As with all insulins, the duration of action will vary according to the type of insulin, the
dose, injection site, blood flow, temperature and level of physical activity.
Actrapid® is also used by doctors to treat some people with diabetes in emergency
situations.
Human insulin is not addictive.
Human insulin is available only with a doctor’s prescription.
Ask your doctor if you have any questions about why human insulin Penfill® has
been prescribed for you.
Before you use human insulin Penfill®
When you must not use it
Do not use Penfill® if:
1. you have an allergy to:
- any medicine containing insulin
- any of the ingredients listed in the
“Ingredients” section of this leaflet
Some of the symptoms of an allergic reaction may include:
- redness, swelling, rash and itching at the injection site;
- rash, itching or hives on the skin;
- shortness of breath;
- wheezing or difficulty breathing;
- swelling of the face, lips, tongue or other parts of the body.
2. you are experiencing a low blood sugar level (a “hypo”) when the dose is due.
If you have a lot of hypos discuss appropriate treatment with your doctor.
If you are not sure whether you should start using this medicine, talk to your doctor.
Do not inject Protaphane®, Mixtard® 30/70 or Mixtard® 50/50 into a vein.
Do not use Protaphane®, Mixtard® 30/70 or Mixtard® 50/50 to treat a condition
known as diabetic ketoacidotic coma.
Do not use this medicine after the expiry date printed on the label and carton, or if
the packaging is torn or shows signs of tampering or does not look quite right.
If it has expired or is damaged, return it to your pharmacist for disposal.
Before you start to use it
Tell your doctor if you have allergies to any other medicines, foods, preservatives
or dyes. Tell your doctor if you have or have had any medical conditions,
especially the following:
• kidney problems
• liver problems
• adrenal, pituitary or thyroid gland problems
Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant.
Pregnancy may make managing your diabetes more difficult. Insulin needs usually
decrease during the first three months of pregnancy and increase during the last six
months. Your doctor can discuss with you the risks and benefits involved.
Tell your doctor if you are breast-feeding or planning to breast-feed.
Your doctor or pharmacist can discuss with you the risks and benefits involved.
Inform your doctor as soon as possible if you experience signs of heart failure such
as unusual shortness of breath or rapid increase in weight or localized swelling
(oedema).
Some patients with long-standing type 2 diabetes mellitus and heart disease or previous stroke who are treated with thiazolidinediones in combination with insulin may develop heart failure.
If you have not told your doctor about any of the above, tell them before you use
Penfill®.
Taking other medicines
Tell your doctor if you are taking any other medicines, including any that you
get without a prescription from your pharmacy, supermarket or health food
shop.
Some medicines and human insulin may interfere with each other. These include:
• oral hypoglycaemic agents - used to treat type 2 diabetes
• monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOI) - used to treat depression
• non-selective beta-blockers - used to treat certain heart conditions and high
blood pressure
• alpha-blockers - used to treat high blood pressure and to relieve difficulty in
passing urine caused by an enlarged prostate
• angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors - used to treat certain heart
conditions, high blood pressure or elevated protein/albumin in the urine
• salicylates e.g. aspirin - used to relieve pain and lower fever
• anabolic steroids – used to promote growth
• glucocorticoids (except when applied locally) – used to treat inflammatory conditions
• oral contraceptives (“the pill”) - used for birth control
• thiazides, frusemide or ethacrynic acid - used to treat high blood pressure or fluid
retention (oedema)
• thyroid hormones - used to treat malfunction of the thyroid gland
• sympathomimetics - used to treat asthma
• sulphonamides – used to treat bacterial infections
Or other specific medicines including:
• danazol - used to treat certain female conditions
• oxymetholone – used to treat certain blood disorders
• octreotide - used to treat gastrointestinal endocrine tumours and enlargement of
parts of the body (e.g. hands, feet, head) caused by abnormal growth hormone levels
• lanreotide – used to treat enlargement of parts of the body (e.g. hands, feet, head)
caused by abnormal growth hormone levels
• diazoxide - used to treat high blood pressure
• nicotinic acid - used to treat high cholesterol levels in the blood
• asparaginase - used to treat leukaemia and lymph gland tumours
• quinine – used to treat malaria and relieve muscle cramps
• quinidine – used to treat heart problems
• growth hormone – used to treat growth disorders
Tell your doctor about any other medicines that you are taking.
This is very important. Your doctor will advise you if it is alright to keep taking them
or if you should stop taking them.
Your doctor and pharmacist have more information on medicines to be careful with
or avoid while using this medicine.
How to use human insulin Penfill®
Your doctor, diabetes education nurse or pharmacist will have given you advice on
how to use your medicine. Carefully follow all the directions.
They may differ from the information contained in this leaflet.
Any change in dose or type of insulin should be made cautiously and only under
medical supervision.
If you change the type of insulin that you use, you may have to use more or less than
before. This may happen with the first dose or over a period of time.
If you do not understand the instructions, ask your doctor, diabetes education nurse
or pharmacist for help.
How much to use
Your doctor or diabetes education nurse will tell you how much of this medicine you need
to use.
It is very important that you manage your diabetes carefully. Too much or too little insulin can cause serious effects.
When to use it
Your doctor or diabetes education nurse will tell you when and how often to inject the
insulin. If you are using Actrapid®, Mixtard® 30/70 or Mixtard® 50/50, it is
recommended that you eat a meal or a snack containing carbohydrate within 30 minutes of
the injection.
How to use it
• Penfill® cartridges are designed to be used with Novo Nordisk insulin delivery
devices (such as NovoPen®), and NovoFine® or NovoTwist® needles.
• Make sure you are using the correct type and strength of insulin. Carefully follow
the instructions on how to use your Penfill® in the Novo Nordisk insulin
delivery device.
• If you use more than one type of Penfill® (more than one type of insulin),
you must use a separate insulin delivery device for each type of Penfill®.
• Do not use the insulin level indicator on the device to measure your dose of
insulin.
• You should inject human insulin under the skin (subcutaneous injection) as
shown to you by your doctor or diabetes education nurse.
• In an emergency, the insulin contained within Actrapid® Penfill® is suitable for
intramuscular administration under medical guidance. In an emergency, the
insulin contained within Actrapid® Penfill® is also suitable for intravenous
administration, but only if administered by a physician. For emergency use, the
insulin must first be withdrawn from Penfill® into a syringe. Discard your
Penfill® after emergency use.
• In an emergency, the insulins contained within Protaphane®, Mixtard® 30/70
and Mixtard® 50/50 Penfill® are suitable for intramuscular administration
under medical guidance. For emergency use, the resuspended insulin must first be
withdrawn from Penfill® into a syringe.
Discard your Penfill® after emergency use.
• Do not use Penfill® in insulin pumps.
• Take care not to drop or knock the device that contains Penfill®.
Checking your human insulin Penfill®:
Check your Penfill® before each preparation and injection to make sure
you are using the correct type and strength of insulin. Disinfect the rubber
membrane with a medicinal swab.
Do not use your Actrapid® Penfill® unless the insulin appears clear and colourless.
Do not use it if the insulin appears thickened or has bits in it.
Do not use your Protaphane®, Mixtard® 30/70 or Mixtard® 50/50 Penfill® if the
insulin is no longer a cloudy, white suspension after shaking, or if it has bits in
it.
Always check your Penfill®, including the rubber plunger (stopper). Do not use your
Penfill® if any damage is seen or if there is a gap between the plunger and the white
label band.
If these observations are noted, return your Penfill® to your pharmacist. See the insulin
delivery device user manual for further instructions.
Preparing a dose:
1. Wash your hands.
IMPORTANT - If your Penfill® contains cloudy insulin please read and follow points 2-5 carefully:
2. On the Penfill® cartridge is a coloured band. Do not start an injection with a Penfill® cartridge you have emptied beyond the coloured band. The glass ball must have adequate space to resuspend the insulin. Resuspending is easier when the insulin has reached room temperature.
3. Before you put Penfill® into the Novo Nordisk insulin delivery device, move it up and down between positions a and b, so that the glass ball in the cartridge moves from one end to the other at least 20 times. The movement must always be repeated until the liquid appears uniformly white and cloudy (‘resuspended’).
4. If Penfill® is already inside the Novo Nordisk insulin delivery device, turn the delivery device upside-down at least 10 times with the cartridge inside it. Do this again before each subsequent injection.
5. Complete the remaining stages of injection without delay.
Checking for insulin flow (priming):
Always check your Novo Nordisk insulin delivery device for insulin flow (priming)
before each injection, as described in the device user manual.
The priming procedure may highlight a malfunction with your insulin delivery device. Priming also removes any air bubbles and helps indicate whether or not a needle is broken.
Only dial up your required dose after you see a drop of insulin at the needle tip.
After priming, if you need to put the insulin delivery device down, make sure the needle
does not touch anything.
Injecting a dose:
Choose a site for injection.
Inject the medicine into the abdomen, thighs, upper arms or buttocks.
Your insulin will work more quickly if you inject into the abdomen.
Change the injection site so that the same position is not used more often than once a month.
This will reduce the chance of local skin reactions developing.
Pinch the skin between two fingers, push the needle into the raised skin, and inject
the full dose of insulin under the skin.
Slowly count to 6 before pulling the needle out.
Apply gentle pressure over the injection site for several seconds.
Do not rub the area.
After injecting:
Dispose of your used needle safely into a yellow plastic sharps container after each
injection.
If you are using Actrapid® or Mixtard® insulins, it is recommended that you eat a
meal or a snack containing carbohydrate within 30 minutes of the injection.
Do not share needles, insulin cartridges or insulin delivery devices.
How long to use it
Do not stop using human insulin unless your doctor tells you to.
If you use too much (overdose) -
Hypoglycaemia
Your blood sugar level may become too low (you may experience hypoglycaemia or a
“hypo”) if you:
• accidentally use too much of this medicine
• have too much or unexpected exercise
• delay eating meals or snacks
• eat too little food
• are ill
The first symptoms of mild to moderate hypos can come on suddenly. They may
include:
• cold sweat, cool pale skin
• fatigue, drowsiness, unusual tiredness and weakness
• nervousness, anxious feeling tremor, rapid heart beat
• confusion, difficulty concentrating
• excessive hunger
• vision changes
• headache, nausea
Always carry some sugary food or fruit juice with you.
If you experience any of these symptoms of a hypo, immediately eat some sugary food or
have a sugary drink e.g. lollies, biscuits or fruit juice.
Do not inject any insulin if you feel a hypo coming on.
Tell your relatives, friends, close workmates or carers that you have
diabetes. It is important that they recognise the signs and symptoms of a
hypo.
Make sure they know to give you some sugary food or fruit juice for mild to
moderate symptoms of a hypo.
If you lose consciousness, make sure they know:
• to turn you on your side and get medical help immediately.
• not to give you anything to eat or drink.
This is because you could choke.
An injection of the hormone glucagon may speed up recovery from unconsciousness.
This can be given by a relative, friend, workmate or carer who knows how to give it.
If glucagon is used, eat some sugary food or have a sugary drink as soon as you are
conscious again.
If you do not feel better after this, contact your doctor, diabetes education nurse, or the
closest hospital.
If you do not respond to glucagon treatment, you will require medical attention.
See your doctor if you keep having hypo reactions, or if you have ever become
unconscious after using insulin.
Your insulin dose may need to be changed.
If a severe hypo is not treated, it can cause convulsions, brain damage and even death.
If you miss a dose – Hyperglycamia
If you forget to inject your insulin dose, test your blood sugar level as soon as
possible.
If you are not sure what to do, talk to your doctor, diabetes education nurse or
pharmacist.
Do not use a double dose of your insulin.
If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the dose you missed and use your next dose
when you are meant to.
Otherwise, use it as soon as you remember and then go back to using it as you would
normally.
Your blood sugar levels may become high (hyperglycaemia) if you:
• miss doses of insulin or use less insulin than you need
• have uncontrolled diabetes
• exercise less than usual
• eat more carbohydrates than usual
• are ill or stressed
High blood sugar levels over a long period of time can lead to too much acid in the blood
(diabetic ketoacidosis).
Contact your doctor immediately if your blood sugar level is high or you recognise
any of the following symptoms.
Symptoms of mild to moderate hyperglycaemia include:
• drowsy feeling
• flushed face
• thirst, loss of appetite
• fruity odour on the breath
• blurred vision
• passing larger amounts of urine than usual
• getting up at night more often than usual to pass urine
• high levels of glucose and acetone in the urine
Symptoms of severe hyperglycaemia include:
• heavy breathing
• fast pulse
• nausea, vomiting
• dehydration
• loss of consciousness
Severe hyperglycaemia can lead to unconsciousness and in extreme cases death
if untreated.
Discuss any worries you may have about this with your doctor, diabetes education
nurse or pharmacist.
While you are using human insulin Penfill®
Things you must do
Measure your blood sugar level regularly.
Make sure all friends, relatives, workmates or carers know that you have
diabetes.
If your child has diabetes it is important to tell their carers.
Keep using your insulin even if you feel well.
It helps to control your condition, but does not cure it.
Tell your doctor if you often have hypos (low blood sugar levels).
Your doctor may need to adjust your insulin dose.
Always carry some sugary food or fruit juice with you.
If you experience any of the symptoms of a hypo, immediately eat some sugary food or
have a sugary drink e.g. lollies, biscuits or fruit juice.
Tell your doctor if you have trouble recognising the symptoms of hypos.
Under certain conditions, the early warning signs of hypos can be different or less
obvious. Your doctor may need to adjust your insulin dose.
Make sure that you tell every doctor, dentist, pharmacist or other health care
professional who is treating you that you have diabetes and are using insulin.
Tell your doctor, diabetes education nurse or pharmacist if you are travelling.
Ask them for a letter explaining why you are taking injecting devices with you. Each
country you visit will need to see this letter, so you should take several copies.
You may need to inject your insulin and eat your meals at different times because of time
differences in and between countries.
You may not be able to get the same type of insulin in the country you are visiting.
Your doctor, diabetes education nurse or pharmacist can provide you with some
helpful information.
Things you must not do
Do not stop using your medicine unless your doctor tells you to.
Do not use the medicine if you think it has been frozen or exposed to excessive heat.
It will not work as well.
Do not refill your Penfill®.
Do not use this medicine to treat any other complaints unless your doctor tells you to.
Do not give your medicine to anyone else, even if they have the same condition as
you.
Things to be careful of
Be careful driving or operating machinery until you know how the insulin affects you.
Tell your doctor if you drink alcohol.
Alcohol may mask the symptoms of hypos.
Tell your doctor if you are ill.
Illness, especially with nausea and vomiting, may cause your insulin needs to change.
Even if you are not eating, you still require insulin. You and your doctor should design
an insulin plan for those times when you are sick.
Tell your doctor if you are exercising more than usual.
Exercise may lower your need for this medicine. Exercise may also speed up the
effect of a dose of it, especially if the exercise involves the area of the injection site
(e.g. the leg should not be used for injection prior to jogging or running).
Tell your doctor if your diet changes.
Changes in diet may cause your insulin needs to change.
Side effects
Tell your doctor, diabetes education nurse or pharmacist as soon as possible if you do not feel well while you are using human insulin.
This medicine helps most people for whom it is prescribed, but it may have unwanted side
effects in a few people. All medicines can have side effects. Sometimes they are
serious, most of the time they are not. You may need medical treatment if you get some
of the side effects.
Do not be alarmed by the following lists of side effects. You may not experience any of
them.
Ask your doctor, diabetes education nurse= or pharmacist to answer any questions
you may have.
The most common side effect when using insulin is low blood sugar levels (a hypo).
Tell your doctor if you notice any of the following and they worry you:
• hypos (mild to moderate)
• redness, swelling or itching at the injection site. Usually these symptoms
disappear within a few weeks during continued use. If you have serious or
continuing reactions, you may need to stop using your current insulin and use
another insulin.
• a depression or thickening of the skin around the injection site (lipodystrophy)
• when you first start your insulin treatment you may get visual problems
or swollen hands and feet
This list includes the more common side effects of your medicine. They are usually
mild and short-lived.
If any of the following happen, tell your doctor immediately or go to Accident and
Emergency at your nearest hospital:
More severe symptoms of low blood sugar levels, including:
• disorientation
• seizures, fits or convulsions
• loss of consciousness.
If a severe hypo is not treated, it can cause brain damage and death.
Tell your doctor immediately or go to Accident and Emergency at your nearest
hospital if you notice any of the following:
• skin rashes over a large part of the body
• shortness of breath, wheezing
• swelling of the face, lips or tongue
• fast pulse
• sweating
This list includes very serious side effects.
You may need urgent medical attention or hospitalisation. These side effects are very
rare.
Tell your doctor if you notice anything that is making you feel unwell.
Other side effects not listed above may also occur in some people.
Ask your doctor, diabetes education nurse or pharmacist to answer any questions
you have.
After using human insulin Penfill®
Storage
Penfill® that are not being used should be stored between 2°C and 8°C in the
refrigerator (away from the cooling element).
Protect the insulin in Penfill® from light by keeping the cartridges in the carton
when not in use.
The Penfill® that you are using in your device, or that you are carrying as a spare,
does not need to be kept in a refrigerator.
You can use it for up to 4 weeks after taking it out of the refrigerator if it is kept below
25ºC. Discard Penfill® after 4 weeks even if there is still some insulin left in it.
Penfill® must not be frozen, or exposed to excessive heat or light.
Never use insulin after the expiry date printed on the label and carton after
‘Expiry’.
The expiry date refers to the last day of that month.
Never use Actrapid® Penfill® if the solution is not clear and colourless.
Never use Protaphane®, Mixtard® 30/70 or Mixtard® 50/50 Penfill® if the
suspension does not become white and uniformly cloudy after shaking.
Keep out of the reach of children.
Disposal
Dispose of your needles safely into a yellow plastic sharps container.
If your doctor tells you to stop using this medicine or the expiry date has passed,
ask your pharmacist what to do with any medicine that is left over.
Product description
What it looks like
A coloured band is located on the Penfill® cartridge. The colour of the band is specific
for the insulin preparation.
Actrapid® is a clear, colourless solution for subcutaneous injection.
Actrapid® Penfill® 3mL is a glass cartridge.
Protaphane®, Mixtard® 30/70 and Mixtard® 50/50 are white, cloudy suspensions for
subcutaneous injection. Protaphane®, Mixtard® 30/70 and Mixtard® 50/50
Penfill® 3mL are glass cartridges.
Ingredients
Human insulin (rys) is characterised by being identical to natural human insulin. The
abbreviation “rys” indicates the method of genetic engineering used to manufacture the
insulin.
Actrapid® is a neutral solution of human insulin (rys) 100 IU/mL. Also contains:
glycerol, meta-cresol, zinc chloride, water for injections. Hydrochloric acid and sodium
hydroxide are used to adjust the pH.
Protaphane® is a neutral suspension of isophane human insulin (rys) 100 IU/mL.
Also contains: glycerol, meta-cresol, phenol, dibasic sodium phosphate dihydrate, zinc
chloride, protamine sulfate, water for injections. Hydrochloric acid and sodium
hydroxide are used to adjust the pH.
Mixtard® 30/70 is a pre-mixed neutral suspension of human insulin (rys) 100
IU/mL, consisting of neutral insulin injection (30%) and isophane insulin injection (70%).
Also contains: glycerol, meta-cresol, phenol, dibasic sodium phosphate dihydrate, zinc
chloride, protamine sulfate, water for injections. Hydrochloric acid and sodium
hydroxide are used to adjust the pH.
Mixtard® 50/50 is a pre-mixed neutral suspension of human insulin (rys) 100
IU/mL, consisting of neutral insulin injection (50%) and isophane insulin injection (50%).
Also contains: glycerol, meta-cresol, phenol, dibasic sodium phosphate dihydrate, zinc
chloride, protamine sulfate, water for injections. Hydrochloric acid and sodium
hydroxide are used to adjust the pH.
Sponsor
Penfill® is supplied in Australia by:
Novo Nordisk Pharmaceuticals Pty Ltd
Level 3
21 Solent Circuit
Baulkham Hills NSW 2153.
This leaflet was prepared on 30 August 2012.
Australian Registration Numbers:
Actrapid® Penfill® 3mL: AUST R 169623
Protaphane® Penfill® 3mL: AUST R 169635
Mixtard® 30/70 Penfill® 3mL: AUST R 169629
Mixtard® 50/50 Penfill® 3mL: AUST R 169630
Penfill®, NovoFine®, NovoTwist®, NovoPen®, Actrapid®, Protaphane®,
Mixtard® and NovoCare® are registered trademarks of Novo Nordisk A/S.
© 2012
Further information
For further information call the NovoCare®
Customer Care Centre on 1800 668 626.
www.novonordisk.com.au
You can also get more information about diabetes and insulin from Diabetes Australia:
• freecall helpline 1300 136 588