Acilog Biopen

Indications

Protamine Crystallised Acilog is a rapid-acting insulin analog designed to improve blood sugar control in patients with diabetes mellitus.
Note: Always use as directed by a registered physician.

Composition

Each milliliter contains 100 IU (equivalent to 3.50 mg) of Insulin Aspart (rDNA).

Description

Acilog (rDNA) is a sterile, clear insulin solution specifically formulated for subcutaneous or intravenous administration. As a fast-acting blood glucose-lowering agent, it offers quicker onset compared to regular human insulin. The insulin analog closely resembles human insulin, differing only by a single substitution at the B28 position, where Proline is replaced by Aspartic Acid. This modification, achieved through recombinant DNA technology, enhances its efficacy.

Pharmacology

Insulin Aspart’s primary function is to regulate glucose metabolism. By binding to insulin receptors in muscle and fat cells, it lowers blood sugar levels by facilitating glucose uptake and reducing glucose release from the liver.

Dosage

• Rapid Action: Insulin Aspart acts faster and has a shorter duration than regular human insulin. It should typically be administered immediately before meals.
• Individualized Dosage: The dosage is patient-specific and determined by the physician based on individual needs. It is generally used alongside long-acting insulin.
• Typical Requirements: Daily insulin needs typically range from 0.5 to 1.0 IU/kg for adults and children over 2 years. 50-70% of this may come from Insulin Aspart, with the remainder from long-acting insulin.

Administration Methods

1. Subcutaneous Injection: Inject into the abdomen, buttocks, thigh, or upper arm. Administer 5-10 minutes before meals.
2. Continuous Subcutaneous Insulin Infusion (CSII): Delivered through an external pump, with doses split between meal-related boluses (50%) and basal infusion (50%).
3. Intravenous Use: Administer under medical supervision. Maintain concentrations between 0.05 and 1.0 IU/mL in infusion systems. Ensure close monitoring of blood glucose and potassium levels.

Note: Always use as directed by a registered physician.

Administration Instructions

Before injecting Acilog with ConviPen:

1. Insert the cartridge correctly and attach the needle as instructed.
2. Gently invert the pen 8-10 times until the insulin is evenly mixed.
3. Remove the needle cap, expel air bubbles, and adjust the dosage.
4. Inject into the specified site without letting the needle touch any surface to avoid contamination.

Drug Interactions

Certain medications can alter insulin requirements:

• May Reduce Requirements: Oral antidiabetic drugs, ACE inhibitors, fibrates, fluoxetine, salicylates, and sulfonamide antibiotics.
• May Increase Requirements: Thiazides, glucocorticoids, thyroid hormones, growth hormones, and beta-sympathomimetics.
• Variable Effects: Beta-blockers, alcohol, clonidine, and lithium salts may either enhance or weaken insulin’s glucose-lowering effects.

Side Effects

Common side effects include:

• Hypoglycemia
• Allergic reactions
• Injection site reactions
• Lipodystrophy
• Rash or itching

Pregnancy & Lactation

• Pregnancy Category: B. Safe for use during pregnancy.
• Insulin therapy during breastfeeding is considered safe and should not affect the infant. However, dosage adjustments may be required.

Precautions & Warnings

• Blood Glucose Monitoring: Regular monitoring is essential during treatment.
• Dose Adjustments: Changes to the regimen should be made cautiously and only under medical supervision.

Overdose Management

Overdosing on insulin can result in hypoglycemia, which may range from mild to severe.

• Mild Cases: Treat with oral glucose or sugary foods.
• Severe Cases: Administer glucagon (0.5-1 mg) intramuscularly or subcutaneously. If unresponsive, intravenous glucose should be given. Oral carbohydrates are recommended upon recovery to prevent relapse.

Therapeutic Class

Rapid-acting insulin.

Storage Conditions

• Store in a refrigerator at 2°C to 8°C.
• Do not freeze.
• Protect from light.