Novolin 70/30 FlexPen (insulin aspart)

Novolin 70/30 goes by the name of NovoMix 30 in Europe.  Both brands are made by Novo Nordisk.

Information about Novolin 70/30 FlexPen (insulin aspart)

Novolin 70/30 FlexPen is a mixed insulin formulation that combines 70% insulin aspart protamine (intermediate-acting) and 30% insulin aspart (rapid-acting). It is used to help manage blood glucose levels in people with diabetes. The FlexPen device is a prefilled insulin pen, making it convenient for patients to administer insulin doses in a controlled and accurate manner.

Product Highlights

• Novolin 70/30 FlexPen is used for the treatment of type 1 diabetes, a condition where the body does not produce insulin.
• It is also indicated for people with type 2 diabetes whose blood sugar is not adequately controlled with oral medications or other forms of insulin.
• The rapid-acting component helps to control post-meal blood sugar spikes, while the intermediate-acting insulin provides ongoing control.
• Can be used as part of a basal-bolus insulin regimen to control both baseline blood sugar levels and spikes after meals.

Key Ingredient

• Insulin Aspart

Key Benefits

• The prefilled FlexPen allows for easy, precise, and discreet injections, making it more convenient for daily use.
• Provides both rapid-acting and intermediate-acting insulin in a single injection, allowing better control of both mealtime blood sugar spikes and baseline glucose levels.
• The 70/30 combination can reduce the number of injections required compared to using separate rapid and intermediate insulins.
• The rapid-acting insulin starts working within 10-20 minutes, while the intermediate-acting insulin provides sustained control for several hours, covering both immediate and longer-term needs.
• With proper dosing, Novolin 70/30 FlexPen helps reduce the risk of high and low blood sugar levels.

Directions for Use

• Remove the pen cap, attach a new needle, and perform an air shot (priming the pen) by dialing 2 units and pressing the button to ensure insulin is flowing through the needle.
• Common injection sites include the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm. Rotate injection sites to prevent lipodystrophy (changes in the skin or fat tissue).
• Dial the required dose by turning the dose selector on the pen. Insert the needle into the skin at a 90-degree angle and press the injection button to administer the insulin.
• After injection, remove the needle and dispose of it in a sharps container.
• Recap the pen for storage.
• Unopened pens should be stored in the refrigerator (2°C to 8°C).
• After opening, the pen can be stored at room temperature (below 30°C) for up to 28 days.

Safety Concerns

• Novolin 70/30 FlexPen can cause hypoglycemia, especially if the dose is too high or if meals are skipped. Symptoms of low blood sugar include shakiness, sweating, confusion, dizziness, and headaches.
• Insulin mismanagement or missing doses can lead to hyperglycemia. Common signs include excessive thirst, frequent urination, tiredness, and blurred vision.
• Pain, redness, or swelling at the injection site may occur. Rotating injection sites may help reduce this.
• In rare cases, allergic reactions to insulin or the pen device may occur. Signs include rash, itching, difficulty breathing, or swelling at the injection site.
• Insulin therapy may contribute to weight gain in some individuals.
• Repeated injections in the same area can lead to skin thickening or atrophy.

Avoid Novolin 70/30 FlexPen (Insulin Aspart) If

• You are allergic to insulin aspart or any of the ingredients in Novolin 70/30 FlexPen.
• You have hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) or a history of severe hypoglycemic episodes.
• You are pregnant or planning to become pregnant (consult your doctor before use as insulin requirements may change during pregnancy).
• You have diabetic ketoacidosis or other serious diabetic complications requiring emergency care.
• You have a serious infection or illness that could affect your blood sugar levels.
• You are taking certain medications (such as oral hypoglycemics or beta-blockers) that could interact with insulin therapy, affecting your blood sugar control.

This product requires special packaging to maintain its integrity during the shipping process. DO NOT USE THIS MEDICATION if the attached temperature indicator shows that the medication was exposed to temperatures below 2 degrees or above 8 degrees Celsius, and contact the pharmacy immediately.