Apidra Cartridge

Description

Apidra is used to treat Type I and Type II diabetes by improving blood sugar control in adults and children over 4 years of age.

What It Does:

Apidra acts more quickly than human insulin (within 15-20 min) to lower levels of glucose in the blood. It is usually used simultaneously with another long-acting insulin for maximum results.

Also Known As:

Insulin Glulisine

Active Ingredients:

Insulin Glulisine-A fast-acting insulin analogue that differs slightly from human insulin. Insulin glulisine appears in the blood in higher concentrations more quickly than human insulin and as such is often used by diabetics to lower their blood sugar during mealtimes.

Side Effects: 

Hypoglycemia due to incorrect dosing is the most common side effect of taking Apidra. Hypoglycemia can occur even in individuals suffering from high blood sugar. Carrying non-diabetic hard candy or glucose tablets can relieve symptoms at onset.

Signs of hypoglycemia include headache, nausea, hunger, confusion, drowsiness, blurred vision, fast heartbeat, sweating, tremors (particularly in the hands) and trouble concentrating. Many hypoglycemic complain of a “foggy” feeling when blood sugar drops.

Incorrect dosing can also result in hyperglycemia (high blood sugar). Signs of hyperglycemia include thirst, lack of appetitie, nausea and vomiting, drowsiness, dry mouth, increased urination and dry skin. Talk to your doctor about changing the dosage of your Apidra immediately if you begin to notice any of these symptoms before they have the opportunity to become a life threatening problem.

Apidra has been known to cause hypokalemia (low potassium levels in the blood). Signs of hypokalemia include those of hyperglycemia, plus muscle pain or weakness or leg pain/discomfort. (Many patients first notice hypokalemia when they begin getting leg cramps.)

Lifestyle changes can affect Apidra’s effectiveness. Changes in diet and exercise patterns will change your body’s metabolism and may affect your blood sugar. Follow the doctor’s instructions to the letter when using Apidra in both injection and pump form and let them know immediately if you’re planning on starting a new diet and exercise program.

Apidra should never be injected into the same site twice in a row and should never be used by individuals who suffer from an allergy to insulin or while drinking alcohol.