Humulin 30 / 70 Cartridge

Humulin 30 / 70 Cartridge

Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas to managed blood sugar levels. It works by decreasing sugar in our blood and urine by increasing the uptake of sugar from blood into the various tissues such as our muscles, liver and fat.

For those with diabetes, our body either does not produce enough insulin or not at all. This is why insulin injections are necessary in order to keep blood sugar levels within a normal range.

Humulin 30/70 is used to treat patients diagnosed with type 1 and type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Humulin 30/70 combines both intermediate-acting (Humulin N) and short-acting insulin (Humulin R U-100). It’s covers your insulin needs after meals, throughout the day and during bedtime.

This insulin is produced using recombinant DNA processes. Due to its unique manufacturing process, Humulin differs from animal-source insulin but structurally identical to that produced by the pancreas in our body.

Medication is administered through injection under the skin (subcutaneous) and duration can last between 16-18 hours.

HUMULIN 30/70 is a fixed mixture of:

• 30% Humulin R Regular (insulin injection, human biosynthetic)
• 70% Humulin N- NPH (insulin isophane, human biosynthetic)

Side Effects

However rare, the side effects associated to Humulin can occur as with any insulin medication.

The most common side effect is low blood sugar (hypoglycemia). Signs of hypoglycemia include:

• unconsciousness
• disorientation
• seizures
• death

Diabetic Acidosis (DKA)

Diabetic Acidosis (DKA) may develop if your body has too little insulin. This can result from insulin rationing, taking less than your doctor prescribed, eating more than your diet suggests or developing an infection or fever.

Symptoms of Diabetic Acidosis include:

• flushed face
• loss of appetite
• thirst
• drowsiness

More serious symptoms of DKA can include heavy breathing and increased heart rate.

Urine tests have shown that when diabetics experience acidosis, their urine contains a high amount of sugar and acetone.

If untreated, diabetic acidosis can lead to loss of consciousness, coma or can be fatal.

If you believe you are experiencing DKA, seek medical attention immediately.

Allergic Reactions

Insulin users may experience allergic reactions. This can be visible in the form of swelling, redness and itching at the site of injection called local allergy. This typically goes away after a few days. Let your doctor know if you experience any allergic reactions as they my prescribe a different type of insulin or dosage.

If you experience a rash all over your body this can potentially be serious. If you are showing these symptoms in addition to shortness of breath, wheezing, low blood pressure, sweating, increased pulse notify your doctor.

If you are experiencing a generalized allergic reaction, this can be severe and you should seek medical attention immediately.

Your doctor may recommend a skin allergy test to see how your body reacts to other insulin in order to choose the one that is best for you.

Skin reactions at the site of injection may occur. This can include localized cutaneous amyloidosis, lipoatrophy or lipohypertrophy.

If you notice any skin lumps on areas of injection, notify your doctor.

Usage Instructions

Humulin 30/70 cartridges are designed to use with reusable pens by Lilly.

Your doctor or nurse should show you how to properly administer your administration.

Humulin 30/70 cartridges are designed so that other insulin cannot be mixed with the medication it contains.

Humulin cartridges must not be refilled and should not be used in any way with a traditional syringe.

Needles, pens and cartridges should not be shared with others as this can lead to spreading infection or disease.

Your dosage should be determined by your doctor or according to your individual needs.

Insulin should be taken subcutaneously.

During pregnancy, it’s important to manage blood sugar levels for both mother and child. Since pregnancy can affect diabetes, be sure to let your doctor know so they can adjust your treatment as needed.

Patients who are breastfeeding may also want to notify their doctor to make adjustments to insulin dose and/or eating habits.

Storage

• Do not freeze or store near cooling element
• Keep stored away from direct sunlight and heat
• Cartridges should be discarded after 28 days even if they contain insulin

In Use:

• Insulin currently in use does not need to be refrigerated
• Keep at temperature below 25 C

Unused:

• Unused Humulin 30/70 cartridges should be stored in the refrigerator between 2 to 8 C.

Warnings & Precautions

Humulin 30/70 should not be used if you experience allergic reactions from insulin or any of its ingredients.

Do not use insulin during episodes of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia).

It should never be used intravenously or as a treatment for diabetic coma.

Do not inject into a muscle or vein.

Do not use Humulin 30/70 cartridge if it looks like it has clumps floating or if solid white particles are stuck to the bottom giving it a frosted appearance.

If your cartridge is cracked, broken in any way or looks frosted; return it to the place of purchase and ask for an exchange.

Test your blood sugar regularly, especially if you are experiencing nausea or vomiting and share results with your doctor.

Always keep an extra supply of insulin available.

Wear a bracelet or carry identification that lets other know you are diabetic.

Do not use any other insulin medication without guidance from your doctor.

Take precautions to avoid hypoglycemia while operating heavy machinery or driving.

Consult with your doctor on what to do if you miss an insulin dose. You should bring a glucose tablet, hard candy or sugary drink in case you experience hypoglycemia.

If you are running low on insulin and need a temporary reduction. Drink plenty of fluids and reduce food consumption to 2/3 portions. Consult your doctor to get guidance and refill your prescription.

Consult your doctor if you are travelling to another time zone as this can affect your insulin schedule.

Speak to your doctor if you are experiencing any unusual symptoms or have doubts about your condition.