1. Clinical Overview
Insulin Aspart is a rapid-acting human insulin analogue used to control high blood sugar in patients with diabetes mellitus. The 100IU/ml concentration is the standard strength.
| Onset | Duration | Bioavailability |
|---|---|---|
| NA | NA | NA |
2. Mechanism of Action
Insulin Aspart is a recombinant human insulin analogue where the amino acid proline at position B28 is replaced with aspartic acid. This modification reduces the tendency for hexamer formation, allowing for faster dissociation into monomers after subcutaneous injection. This results in a more rapid onset and shorter duration of action compared to regular human insulin. It mimics the physiological prandial insulin secretion, lowering blood glucose by stimulating peripheral glucose uptake (especially in skeletal muscle and fat) and inhibiting hepatic gluconeogenesis and glycogenolysis.
3. Indications & Uses
- Treatment of Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus
- Treatment of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in patients requiring insulin for glycemic control
- For the control of hyperglycemia in adults and children
4. Dosage & Administration
Adult Dosage: Dosage is highly individualized based on metabolic needs, blood glucose monitoring, and glycemic control goals. Typically administered 5-10 minutes before a meal. The total daily insulin requirement is often between 0.5 to 1.0 unit/kg/day, divided between basal and prandial (mealtime) doses.
Administration: For subcutaneous injection only. Inject into the abdominal wall, thigh, upper arm, or buttocks. Rotate injection sites within the same region. Do not administer intravenously or intramuscularly. Visually inspect the solution; it should be clear and colorless. Do not use if cloudy, discolored, or contains particles.
5. Side Effects
Common side effects may include:
- Hypoglycemia (most common)
- Injection site reactions (redness, swelling, itching)
- Lipodystrophy (at the injection site)
- Allergic reactions (localized or systemic)
- Weight gain
- Peripheral edema
6. Drug Interactions
| Drug | Effect | Severity |
|---|---|---|
| Other Antidiabetic Agents (e.g., Sulfonylureas, Metformin, GLP-1 agonists) | Additive hypoglycemic effect, increasing risk of hypoglycemia. | High |
| Corticosteroids (e.g., Prednisone) | May increase insulin resistance, leading to hyperglycemia and increased insulin requirements. | High |
| Beta-blockers (e.g., Propranolol) | May mask tachycardia (a warning sign of hypoglycemia) and potentially prolong hypoglycemia. | Moderate |
| Thiazide Diuretics | May cause hyperglycemia, reducing insulin efficacy. | Moderate |
| MAO Inhibitors, ACE Inhibitors | May enhance hypoglycemic effect. | Moderate |
7. Patient Counselling
8. Toxicology & Storage
Overdose: Seek immediate medical attention.
Storage: Store in a cool, dry place.