INDICATIONS
Diabetes mellitus (hyperglycemia).
DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION
EXTERNAL INSULIN INFUSION PUMPS
Velosulin (insulin human) BR is indicated for use with external insulin infusion pumps. Novo Nordisk has demonstrated Velosulin (insulin human) BR to be compatible with MiniMed Model 506 external insulin infusion pump, using MiniMed catheters of PolyfinTM and SofsetTM types without Quick Release. MiniMed Models 506, 505, and 507 external insulin infusion pumps are equivalent with regard to insulin compatibility. If you have any questions on how to operate the pump, consult with your physician or diabetes educator. It is important that you follow the instructions in your pump manual. Failure to follow the instructions may result in an inaccurate insulin dose. The pump manual will also help you in the selection, use and sterilization of the appropriate accessories specific to your pump model. Use the correct reservoir and catheter for the pump that you are using to minimize catheter blockage.
Follow your external insulin infusion pump instructions for filling a new reservoir making certain that there are no large air bubbles in the syringe or the catheter. Before inserting the needle, use soap and water to clean your hands and the skin of the infusion site to avoid infection. Choose a new site for each new needle.
Follow your instructions from your physician or diabetes educator regarding basal infusion rates and mealtime insulin bolus dosages. An insulin bolus should be followed by a meal within 30 minutes. Velosulin (insulin human) BR is for infusion under the skin. It should not be mixed with any other insulin. To get the most benefit from insulin infusion, measure your blood sugar levels regularly. This will also help in detecting any possible malfunction of your insulin pump.
Change the catheter tubing, the insulin, and the reservoir every 48 hours.
NOTE: In case of pump interruption or failure, switch back to conventional insulin therapy using U-100 syringes and consult with your physician or diabetes educator. Please see the following information:
INSTRUCTIONS FOR INJECTION USING U-100 SYRINGES
A. PREPARING THE INJECTION
- Clean your hands and the injection site with soap and water or with alcohol. Wipe the rubber stopper with an alcohol swab.
- Pull back the plunger of the syringe until the rubber tip reaches the marking for the number of units you will inject.
- Push the needle of the syringe through the rubber stopper into the vial.
- Push the plunger all the way in. This inserts air into the vial.
- Turn the vial and syringe upside down and slowly pull the plunger back to a few units beyond the correct dose.
- If there are air bubbles, flick the syringe firmly with your finger to raise the air bubbles to the needle, then slowly push the plunger to the correct unit marking.
- Remove the needle from the vial.
B. GIVING THE INJECTION
- The following areas are suitable for subcutaneous insulin injection: thighs, upper arms, buttocks, or abdomen. Do not change areas without consulting your physician. The actual point of injection should be changed with each injection. Injection sites should be about an inch apart.
- The injection site should be clean and dry. Pinch up skin area to be injected and hold it firmly.
- Hold the syringe like a pencil and push the needle quickly and firmly into the pinched-up area.
- Release the skin and push plunger all the way in to inject insulin beneath the skin. To ensure that all the insulin is injected, keep the needle in the skin for several seconds after the injection with your finger on the plunger. Do not inject into a muscle unless your physician has advised it. You should never inject insulin into a vein.
- Remove the needle. If slight bleeding occurs, press lightly with a dry cotton swab for a few seconds - do not rub.
IMPORTANT
Failure to comply with the above instructions and the antiseptic measures may lead to infections at the injection site.
Note: You should use the injection technique recommended by your physician.
IMPORTANT NOTES
- A change in the type, strength, species or purity of insulin could require a dosage adjustment. Any change in insulin should be made under medical supervision.
- You may have learned how to test your urine or your blood for glucose. It is important to do these tests regularly. Monitor your results and make appropriate dosage adjustments. Contact your physician or diabetes educator for assistance.
- If you have an illness, especially with vomiting or fever, continue taking your insulin. If possible, stay on your regular diet. If you have trouble eating, drink fruit juices, regular soft drinks, or clear soups; if you can, eat small amounts of bland foods. Test your urine for glucose and ketones and if possible, test your blood glucose. Note the results and adjust dosage accordingly or contact your physician or diabetes educator for assistance. If you have severe and prolonged vomiting, seek immediate emergency medical care.
- You should always carry identification which states that you have diabetes.
- Always consult with your physician or pharmacist before taking any new medication.
Contact your physician if you have any questions about your condition or the use of insulin.
HOW SUPPLIED
STORAGE
Insulin should be stored in a cool place, preferably in a refrigerator, but not in the freezing compartment. Do not use insulin if it has been frozen. Keep the insulin in its carton so that it will stay clean and protected from light. If refrigeration is not possible, the bottle of insulin which you are currently using can be kept unrefrigerated as long as it is kept as cool as possible (below 86°F [30°C]) and away from heat and sunlight. Never use Velosulin (insulin human) Ò BR if it becomes viscous (thickened) or cloudy. Use it only if it is clear and colorless.
Never use insulin after the expiration date which is printed on the vial label and carton. Once the vial has been opened, it should be used within four weeks (28 days).
(Note: Remove the tamper-resistant cap at first use. If the cap has already been removed, do not use this product and return it to your pharmacy.)