Drug Guide

Generic Name

Insulin Aspart Protamine Recombinant & Insulin Aspart Recombinant

Brand Names Novolog Mix 70/30, Novolog Mix 70/30 Penfill, Novolog Mix 70/30 Flexpen, Novolog Mix 50/50

Classification

Therapeutic: Antidiabetic agent

Pharmacological: Insulin, insulin analog

FDA Approved Indications

Mechanism of Action

Insulin Aspart is a rapid-acting insulin analog that facilitates cellular glucose uptake, inhibits hepatic glucose production, and promotes storage of glucose as glycogen. The protamine component prolongs the action of insulin Aspart, creating an intermediate-duration insulin.

Dosage and Administration

Adult: Dosing individualized based on patient needs; typical starting dose varies

Pediatric: Dosing individualized; initiated based on blood glucose monitoring

Geriatric: Careful dosing adjustments recommended, considering renal and hepatic function

Renal Impairment: Use with caution; may require dose adjustments

Hepatic Impairment: Use with caution; monitor closely and adjust doses accordingly

Pharmacokinetics

Absorption: Rapid after subcutaneous injection

Distribution: Widely distributed throughout body water compartments

Metabolism: Metabolized primarily in the liver and kidneys

Excretion: Metabolites excreted via renal pathways

Half Life: Approximately 1 hour for insulin Aspart; duration influenced by formulation and site of injection

Contraindications

Precautions

Adverse Reactions - Common

Adverse Reactions - Serious

Drug-Drug Interactions

Drug-Food Interactions

N/A

Drug-Herb Interactions

N/A

Nursing Implications

Assessment: Monitor blood glucose and adjust doses accordingly; assess for signs of hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia

Diagnoses:

  • Risk for unstable blood glucose levels
  • Risk for hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia

Implementation: Administer subcutaneously as prescribed; rotate injection sites; instruct on proper storage and handling

Evaluation: Effectiveness assessed by blood glucose control and patient reporting

Patient/Family Teaching

Special Considerations

Black Box Warnings:

Genetic Factors: None specific

Lab Test Interference: May alter some laboratory glucose tests

Overdose Management

Signs/Symptoms: Severe hypoglycemia: sweating, trembling, confusion, seizures, unconsciousness

Treatment: Administer oral glucose if alert; in severe cases, provide IV glucose or glucagon, and seek emergency care

Storage and Handling

Storage: Store unopened vials/cartridges in the refrigerator; opened vials may be kept at room temperature for up to 28 days

Stability: Stable at room temperature up to 28 days once opened

This guide is for educational purposes only and is not intended for clinical use.