Apidra SoloStar Pen 100 Units / mL

How Apidra SoloStar 100IU/ml Injectable Pens work

The Apidra Solostar 100IU/ml injectable pen is a rapid acting insulin that begins working 10 to 20 minutes after application. Similar to insulin produced in the body as it allows glucose into fat cells and muscles to produce energy in addition to blocking glucose release from the liver.

The Apidra Solostar 100IU/ml injectable pen is used to improve blood sugar levels in those with type 1 and type 2 diabetes. This fast-acting insulin effectively lowers blood sugar levels after mealtime and can greatly reduce the chances of developing serious diabetes conditions.

This medication is typically prescribed with long-acting type insulin medications or other diabetes medications. Your nurse or doctor will demonstrate the correct way to inject this insulin subcutaneously (under the skin). Part of your diabetes regimen should include regular exercise, healthy diet and weight loss.

Track your blood sugar levels regularly and be sure to share them with your doctor so they can adjust your dosage accordingly.

Side effects

Common side effects with using Apidra Solostar pens include:

• allergic reactions
• injection site reactions
• itching and rash
• lipodystrophy
• weight gain
• hard lumps (lipodystrophy)
• swelling

To avoid any side effects

• always inject the correct dose
• do not skip meals
• monitor your blood sugar levels regularly
• avoid drinking excessively
• have regular meals

If you are experiencing low blood sugar levels (hypoglycemia) do not use this medication. Alert your doctor if you are having any problems with your liver, kidney and heart.

It is unknown if insulin glulasine is excreted through breast milk. There are limited studies that have shown that this medication can harm a developing baby during pregnancy. Your doctor will assess your health and risks before prescribing it as they may need to adjust the dosage amount.

This insulin medication does not pass through breast milk and is not harmful to the baby.

Interaction with other medications

You may need to adjust insulin glulasine dosages as there are a number of substances which can affect glucose metabolism.

Substances that may lower blood glucose levels and lead to hypoglycaemia include:

• angiotensin
• ACE inhibitors
• disopyramide
• fluoxetine
• fibrates
• monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)
• pentaoxifylline
• propoxyphene
• salicylates
• sulphonamide antibiotics
• oral antibiotics

Substances that may reduce glucose lowering activity include:

• corticosteroids
• danazol
• diazoxide
• glucagon
• diurectics
• isoniazid
• phenothiazine derivatives
• somatropin
• sympathomimetic products (epinephrine, salbutamol, terbutaline)
• thyroid hormones
• oestrogens
• progestins (i.e. oral contraceptives)
• protease inhibitors
• atypical antipsychotic products (ie clozapine and olanzapine)

Alcohol, lithium salts, beta-blockers and clonidine may weaken blood glucose lowering activity from the insulin.

Effects on ability to use machines or drive

This medication may impair a persons ability to concentrate from hyperglycemia or hypoglycemia. Visual impairment may put a person at risk and impair their abilities when needed such as operating machinery or driving.

It’s advised that diabetes patients should take the proper precautions in order to avoid experiencing hypoglycemia while driving.

Storage

Storage (unopened):

• Refrigerate until expiration date
• Keep in a cool temperature (bellow 77 F) and use within 28 days.

Storage (opened):

• Store vial in refrigerator or at cool temperature and use within 28 days
• Do not store Apidra injectable pen with needle attached
• Do not use medication if it looks colorless, cloudy or like it has particles in it
• Contact your pharmacist for new medicine if you feel it is spoiled.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens if I miss a dose (Apidra SoloStar Pen)?

Since this medication contains insulin glulisine it needs to be consumed within 15 minutes of having a meal. You may not be on a regular eating or dosing schedule. If you miss a dose do not use two at the same time.

What happens if I overdose?

Contact the Poison Help Line at 1-800-222-1222 or seek medical attention immediately as it can lead to life-threatening hypoglycemia. If you are experiencing symptoms such as drowsiness, confusion, numbness, tingling in your mouth, trouble speaking, blurred vision, muscle weakness, seizures or loss of consciousness – seek medical help.

What precautions should I take while taking insulin glulisine (Apidra SoloStar Pen)?

• Avoid driving or operating machinery
• Avoid dosage errors. Be sure to check labels prior to injecting insulin.
• Avoid drinking alcohol as it can lower blood sugar levels and interfere with medication

Where can I get more information about Apidra SoloStar Pens?

Speak to your pharmacist or visit the official Apidra website.

Quick Tips when taking Apidra SoloStar Pens

• Use this medication 15 minutes before mealtime or 20 minutes after starting your meal
• Rotate injection sites regularly to prevent hard lumps or other skin irritations on the same site
• Always carry a sugary snack such as fruit juice or sweets if you experience hypoglycemia (cold sweats, tremors, weakness or anxiety)
• Monitor blood sugar levels regularly as Hypoglycemia is a common side effect
• Do not use if colorless, clear or contains particles
• For faster results and better absorption, inject below the skin of the abdomen
• Opened cartridges/vials are good for up to 4 weeks at room temperature, unopened vials should be refrigerated between 2°C–8°C.