Let's learn about the Insulin Aspart mixture used for diabetes (Insulin Aspart; Insulin Aspart Protamine)

Since you have Diabetes Mellitus, your doctor may have told you to use insulin. You may have been prescribed a mixture of two types called Insulin Aspart and Insulin Aspart Protamine. Although the name may sound a little scary, once you understand it simply, it is very easy to use. So let's talk about this today.

Simply put, this is a type of insulin that is used to treat diabetes. What makes it special is that it is a combination of a short-acting insulin and an intermediate-acting insulin. This increases your body's insulin levels and helps control your blood sugar (glucose) levels. It is also important to monitor your diet and exercise while taking this medicine.

Things to tell your doctor before starting medication

Before you start using this insulin, you should definitely tell your doctor about these things, as your insulin dose may change with these conditions.

• If you have frequent episodes of low blood sugar .
• If you have eye diseases or vision problems .
• If you have kidney disease .
• If you have liver disease .
• If you have had an allergic reaction to insulin or other medications, foods, or preservatives.
• If you are pregnant or trying to get pregnant .
• If you are a nursing mother .

How to use this insulin correctly?

This medicine should be injected under the skin. You should use the exact dose as your doctor tells you. The most important thing to remember is that you should inject this insulin within 15 minutes of starting to eat .

Your doctor will clearly explain how to use this, and how to adjust the dosage when you feel sick or are exercising. Never use more or less than the prescribed dosage.

Check these things before the injection

• Appearance of insulin: Always check the appearance of insulin before injecting it. This type should be white and cloudy . Do not use it if it is not uniformly cloudy even after mixing well.
• Mixing method: To mix this, place the vial between your hands and slowly rotate it about ten times . Remember, shaking is not good.. Always mix this insulin before each injection. Do not mix this insulin with any other insulin or diluent.
• Using an insulin pen: If you are using a pen, remember to remove the outer needle cover before taking a dose.
• Disposing of needles: Do not throw used needles and syringes in the trash. They should be placed in a sharps container. If you don't have one, ask your doctor for one.

What to do if you miss a dose?

It is very important not to miss a dose of insulin. Talk to your doctor in advance about what to do if you miss a dose and make a plan for it. If you do miss a dose, follow that plan. Never take a double dose to make up for a missed dose .

What if I take too much medicine?

If you think you have taken more than the prescribed dose, immediately call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital , or go to the Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) of the nearest hospital.

Other medications that may interact with this insulin

Your blood sugar levels can change depending on other medications you take. So, tell your doctor about all the medications you take, including vitamins and herbal products.

Things to consider when using insulin

• Regular checkups: See your doctor on scheduled days to monitor your treatment progress. A test called HbA1c (A1C) is done every 2-3 months to check how well your blood sugar is being controlled.
• Know your blood sugar levels: Learn how to measure your blood sugar at home. Be aware of the symptoms of low blood sugar (Hypoglycemia) and high blood sugar (Hyperglycemia) and how to manage them.
• If you have low blood sugar: Always carry some sugar (a candy bar, a glucose tablet) with you. If you have a seizure or lose consciousness due to low blood sugar, tell family and friends not to put anything in your mouth. If this happens, you should seek medical help immediately.
• Don't skip meals. Also, consult your doctor about drinking alcohol.
• Wear an ID card or bracelet that lists your medical condition and medication details.

What are the possible side effects of the medication?

Like any medicine, this one can cause some side effects. Some of the symptoms below can be very serious.

How to store insulin?

This is very important. If insulin is not kept at the correct temperature, it may lose its effectiveness.

Unopened medicine

• Vials:Store in the fridge between 2 and 8 degrees Celsius. Alternatively, you can store it at room temperature (below 30 degrees Celsius). However, if you store it at room temperature, you should remove it after 28 days. Never store it in the freezer .
• FlexPens (pen): Store in the refrigerator between 2 and 8 degrees Celsius. If stored at room temperature (below 30 degrees Celsius), discard after 14 days.

Medicines in use

• Vials: Can be stored in the refrigerator or at room temperature (below 30 degrees Celsius). Discard any remaining contents after 28 days of use.
• FlexPens (pen): Store at room temperature (below 30 degrees Celsius) . Do not refrigerate the pen in use. Throw away any insulin left in it after 14 days of use.