| APIDRA |
Prescribing Information |
|
| (insulin glulisine [rDNA origin] injection) |
HIGHLIGHTS OF PRESCRIBING INFORMATION
These highlights do not include all the information needed to use APIDRA
safely and effectively. See full prescribing information for APIDRA.
APIDRA (insulin glulisine [rDNA origin] injection) solution for injection
Initial U.S. Approval: 2004
- - - - - - RECENT MAJOR CHANGES - - - - - -
| Indications and Usage (1) |
10/2008 |
- - - - - - INDICATIONS AND USAGE - - - - - -
APIDRA is a rapid acting human
insulin analog indicated to improve glycemic control in adults and children with
diabetes mellitus. (1)
- - - - - - DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION - - - - - -
The dosage of APIDRA must be
individualized (2.1)
| Subcutaneous Injection |
Administer within 15 minutes
before a meal or within 20 minutes after starting a meal. Use in a regimen with an intermediate
or long-acting insulin. (2.1, 2.2) |
| Continuous Subcutaneous Infusion Pump |
APIDRA must not be mixed or
diluted when used in an external insulin infusion pump. (2.3) |
| Intravenous Infusion |
Infuse intravenously
(0.05 Units/mL to 1 Units/mL APIDRA in 0.9% sodium chloride using polyvinyl chloride
infusion bags) only under strict medical supervision with close monitoring of blood
glucose and potassium. (2.4) |
- - - - - - DOSAGE FORMS AND STRENGTHS - - - - - -
APIDRA 100 units/mL (U-100) is
available as: (3)
| • |
10 mL vials |
| • |
3 mL cartridge system for
use in OptiClik® (Insulin Delivery Device) |
- - - - - - CONTRAINDICATIONS - - - - - -
| • |
Do not use during episodes
of hypoglycemia (4) |
| • |
Do not use in patients with
hypersensitivity to APIDRA or any of its excipients (4) |
- - - - - - WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS - - - - - -
| • |
Dose adjustment and monitoring:
Closely monitor blood glucose in all patients treated with insulin. Change insulin regimens
cautiously and only under medical supervision. (5.1) |
| • |
Hypoglycemia: Most common adverse
reaction of insulin therapy and may be life-threatening (5.2) |
| • |
Allergic reactions: Severe,
life-threatening, generalized allergy, including anaphylaxis, can occur with any
insulin, including APIDRA (5.3) |
| • |
Hypokalemia: All insulins,
including APIDRA can cause hypokalemia, which if untreated, may result in respiratory
paralysis, ventricular arrhythmia, and death (5.4) |
| • |
Renal or hepatic impairment:
Like all insulins, may require a reduction in the APIDRA dose (5.5) |
| • |
Mixing: APIDRA for
subcutaneous injection should not be mixed with insulins other than NPH insulin.
Do not mix APIDRA with any insulin for intravenous administration or for use in
a continuous infusion pump (5.6) |
| • |
Pump use: Change the
APIDRA in the pump reservoir every 48 hours (5.7) |
| • |
Intravenous use:
Frequently monitor for hypoglycemia and hypokalemia. (5.8) |
- - - - - - ADVERSE REACTIONS - - - - - -
Adverse reactions commonly
associated with APIDRA include hypoglycemia, allergic reactions, injection site
reactions, lipodystrophy, pruritus, and rash. (6.1)
To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS,
contact sanofi-aventis at 1-800-633-1610 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088
or www.fda.gov/medwatch.
- - - - - - DRUG INTERACTIONS - - - - - -
| • |
Certain drugs affect glucose
metabolism and may necessitate insulin dose adjustment (7) |
| • |
The signs of hypoglycemia
may be reduced or absent in patients taking anti-adrenergic drugs (e.g., beta-blockers,
clonidine, guanethidine, and reserpine). (7) |
- - - - - - USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS - - - - - -
| • |
APIDRA has not been studied
in children under 4 years of age (8.4) |
See 17 for PATIENT
COUNSELING INFORMATION
Revised: October 2008
BACK TO TOP
FULL PRESCRIBING INFORMATION: CONTENTS*
WARNING
| 2 |
DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION |
| |
2.1 |
Dosage considerations |
| |
2.2 |
Subcutaneous administration |
| |
2.3 |
Continuous subcutaneous infusion (insulin pump) |
| |
2.4 |
Intravenous administration |
| 3 |
DOSAGE FORMS AND STRENGTHS |
| 5 |
WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS |
| |
5.1 |
Dose adjustment and monitoring |
| |
5.2 |
Hypoglycemia |
| |
5.3 |
Hypersensitivity and allergic reactions |
| |
5.4 |
Hypokalemia |
| |
5.5 |
Renal or hepatic impairment |
| |
5.6 |
Mixing of insulins |
| |
5.7 |
Subcutaneous insulin infusion pumps |
| |
5.8 |
Intravenous administration |
| |
5.9 |
Drug interactions |
| 6 |
ADVERSE REACTIONS |
| |
6.1 |
Clinical trial experience |
| |
6.2 |
Postmarketing experience |
| 8 |
USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS |
| |
8.1 |
Pregnancy |
| |
8.3 |
Nursing mothers |
| |
8.4 |
Pediatric use |
| |
8.5 |
Geriatric use |
| 12 |
CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY |
| |
12.1 |
Mechanism of action |
| |
12.2 |
Pharmacodynamics |
| |
12.3 |
Pharmacokinetics |
| |
12.4 |
Clinical pharmacology in specific populations |
| 13 |
NONCLINICAL TOXICOLOGY |
| |
13.1 |
Carcinogenesis, mutagenesis,
impairment of fertility |
| 14 |
CLINICAL STUDIES |
| |
14.1 |
Type 1 Diabetes-Adults |
| |
14.2 |
Type 2 Diabetes-Adults |
| |
14.3 |
Type 1 Diabetes-Adults:
Pre-and post-meal administration |
| |
14.4 |
Type 1 Diabetes-Pediatric patients |
| |
14.5 |
Type 1 Diabetes-Adults:
Continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion |
| 16 |
HOW SUPPLIED/STORAGE AND HANDLING |
| |
16.1 |
How supplied |
| |
16.2 |
Storage |
| |
16.3 |
Preparation and handling |
| 17 |
PATIENT COUNSELING INFORMATION |
| |
17.1 |
Instructions for all patients |
| |
17.2 |
For patients using continuous subcutaneous insulin pumps |
*Sections or subsections omitted from
the full prescribing information are not listed.
BACK TO TOP
FULL PRESCRIBING INFORMATION
1 INDICATIONS
AND USAGE
APIDRA is indicated to improve glycemic control in adults and children with diabetes mellitus.
2 DOSAGE
AND ADMINISTRATION
2.1 Dosage
considerations
APIDRA is a recombinant insulin analog that is equipotent to human insulin (i.e. one unit
of APIDRA has the same glucose-lowering effect as one unit of regular human insulin) when
given intravenously. When given subcutaneously, APIDRA has a more rapid onset of action
and a shorter duration of action than regular human insulin.
The dosage of APIDRA must be individualized. Blood glucose monitoring is essential in
all patients receiving insulin therapy.
The total daily insulin requirement may vary and is usually between 0.5 to 1 Unit/kg/day.
Insulin requirements may be altered during stress, major illness, or with changes in
exercise, meal patterns, or coadministered drugs.
2.2 Subcutaneous
administration
APIDRA should be given within 15 minutes before a meal or within 20 minutes after starting a meal.
APIDRA given by subcutaneous injection should generally be used in regimens with an intermediate
or long-acting insulin.
APIDRA should be administered by subcutaneous injection in the abdominal wall, thigh, or
upper arm. Injection sites should be rotated within the same region (abdomen, thigh or
upper arm) from one injection to the next to reduce the risk of lipodystrophy
[See Adverse Reactions (6.1)].
2.3 Continuous
subcutaneous infusion (insulin pump)
APIDRA may be administered by continuous subcutaneous infusion in the abdominal wall. Do not
use diluted or mixed insulins in external insulin pumps. Infusion sites should be rotated
within the same region to reduce the risk of lipodystrophy [See Adverse Reactions (6.1)].
The initial programming of the external insulin infusion pump should be based on the total
daily insulin dose of the previous regimen.
The following insulin pumps† have been used in APIDRA clinical trials conducted by
sanofi-aventis, the manufacturer of APIDRA:
| |
• |
Disetronic® H-Tron® plus
V100 and D-Tron® with Disetronic catheters (Rapid™, Rapid C™,
Rapid D™, and Tender™) |
| |
• |
MiniMed® Models 506, 507,
507c and 508 with MiniMed catheters (Sof-set Ultimate QR™, and Quick-set™). |
Before using a different insulin pump
with APIDRA, read the pump label to make sure the pump has been evaluated with APIDRA.
Physicians and patients should carefully evaluate information on pump use in the APIDRA
prescribing information, Patient Information Leaflet, and the pump manufacturer’s manual.
APIDRA-specific information should be followed for in-use time, frequency of changing
infusion sets, or other details specific to APIDRA usage, because APIDRA-specific information
may differ from general pump manual instructions.
Based on in vitro studies which have shown loss of the preservative, metacresol
and insulin degradation, APIDRA in the reservoir should be changed at least every 48 hours.
APIDRA in clinical use should not be exposed to temperatures greater than 98.6°F (37°C).
[See Warnings and Precautions (5.7) and How Supplied/Storage and
Handling (16.2)].
2.4 Intravenous administration
APIDRA can be administered intravenously under medical supervision for glycemic
control with close monitoring of blood glucose and serum potassium to avoid
hypoglycemia and hypokalemia. For intravenous use, APIDRA should be used at
concentrations of 0.05 Units/mL to 1 Unit/mL insulin glulisine in infusion
systems using polyvinyl chloride (PVC) bags. APIDRA has been shown to be stable
only in normal saline solution (0.9% sodium chloride). Parenteral drug products
should be inspected visually for particulate matter and discoloration prior to
administration, whenever solution and container permit. Do not administer insulin
mixtures intravenously.
BACK TO TOP
3 DOSAGE
FORMS AND STRENGTHS
APIDRA 100 units per mL (U-100) is available as:
| |
• |
10 mL vials |
| |
• |
3 mL cartridges for use in the
OptiClik® Insulin Delivery Device |
BACK TO TOP
4 CONTRAINDICATIONS
APIDRA is contraindicated:
| |
• |
during episodes of hypoglycemia |
| |
• |
in patients who are hypersensitive
to APIDRA or to any of its excipients
When used in patients with known hypersensitivity to APIDRA or its excipients, patients
may develop localized or generalized hypersensitivity reactions [See Adverse
Reactions (6.1)]. |
BACK TO TOP
5 WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS
5.1 Dosage adjustment and monitoring
Glucose monitoring is essential for patients receiving insulin therapy. Changes to an
insulin regimen should be made cautiously and only under medical supervision. Changes
in insulin strength, manufacturer, type, or method of administration may result in the
need for a change in insulin dose. Concomitant oral antidiabetic treatment may need
to be adjusted.
As with all insulin preparations, the time course of action for APIDRA may vary in
different individuals or at different times in the same individual and is dependent
on many conditions, including the site of injection, local blood supply, or local
temperature. Patients who change their level of physical activity or meal plan may
require adjustment of insulin dosages.
5.2 Hypoglycemia
Hypoglycemia is the most common adverse reaction of insulin therapy,
including APIDRA. The risk of hypoglycemia increases with tighter
glycemic control. Patients must be educated to recognize and manage
hypoglycemia. Severe hypoglycemia may lead to unconsciousness and/or
convulsions and may result in temporary or permanent impairment of
brain function or death. Severe hypoglycemia requiring the assistance
of another person and/or parenteral glucose infusion or glucagon
administration has been observed in clinical trials with insulin,
including trials with APIDRA.
The timing of hypoglycemia usually reflects the time-action profile
of the administered insulin formulations. Other factors such as
changes in food intake (e.g., amount of food or timing of meals),
injection site, exercise, and concomitant medications may also
alter the risk of hypoglycemia [See Drug Interactions (7)].
As with all insulins, use caution in patients with hypoglycemia
unawareness and in patients who may be predisposed to hypoglycemia
(e.g., the pediatric population and patients who fast or have erratic
food intake). The patient’s ability to concentrate and react may be
impaired as a result of hypoglycemia. This may present a risk in
situations where these abilities are especially important, such as
driving or operating other machinery.
Rapid changes in serum glucose levels may induce symptoms similar
to hypoglycemia in persons with diabetes, regardless of the glucose
value. Early warning symptoms of hypoglycemia may be different or
less pronounced under certain conditions, such as longstanding
diabetes, diabetic nerve disease, use of medications such as
beta-blockers [See Drug Interactions (7)], or intensified
diabetes control. These situations may result in severe hypoglycemia
(and, possibly, loss of consciousness) prior to the patient’s
awareness of hypoglycemia.
Intravenously administered insulin has a more rapid onset of action
than subcutaneously administered insulin, requiring closer monitoring
for hypoglycemia.
5.3 Hypersensitivity and allergic reactions
Severe, life-threatening, generalized allergy, including anaphylaxis,
can occur with insulin products, including APIDRA
[See Adverse reactions (6.1)].
5.4 Hypokalemia
All insulin products, including APIDRA, cause a shift in potassium
from the extracellular to intracellular space, possibly leading to
hypokalemia. Untreated hypokalemia may cause respiratory paralysis,
ventricular arrhythmia, and death. Use caution in patients who may
be at risk for hypokalemia (e.g., patients using potassium-lowering
medications, patients taking medications sensitive to serum potassium
concentrations). Monitor glucose and potassium frequently when APIDRA
is administered intravenously.
5.5 Renal or hepatic impairment
Frequent glucose monitoring and insulin dose reduction may be required
in patients with renal or hepatic impairment [See Clinical
Pharmacology (12.4)].
5.6 Mixing of insulins
APIDRA for subcutaneous injection should not be mixed with insulin
preparations other than NPH insulin. If APIDRA is mixed with NPH
insulin, APIDRA should be drawn into the syringe first. Injection
should occur immediately after mixing.
Do not mix APIDRA with other insulins for intravenous administration
or for use in a continuous subcutaneous infusion pump.
APIDRA for intravenous administration should not be diluted with
solutions other than 0.9% sodium chloride (normal saline). The
efficacy and safety of mixing APIDRA with diluents or other
insulins for use in external subcutaneous infusion pumps have
not been established.
5.7 Subcutaneous insulin infusion pumps
When used in an external insulin pump for subcutaneous infusion,
APIDRA should not be diluted or mixed with any other insulin.
APIDRA in the reservoir should be changed at least every 48 hours.
APIDRA should not be exposed to temperatures greater than 98.6°F
(37°C).
Malfunction of the insulin pump or infusion set or insulin degradation
can rapidly lead to hyperglycemia and ketosis. Prompt identification and
correction of the cause of hyperglycemia or ketosis is necessary. Interim
subcutaneous injections with APIDRA may be required. Patients using
continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion pump therapy must be trained
to administer insulin by injection and have alternate insulin therapy
available in case of pump failure. [See Dosage and Administration (2.3),
How Supplied/Storage and Handling (16), and Patient Counseling
Information (17.2)].
5.8 Intravenous administration
When APIDRA is administered intravenously, glucose and potassium
levels must be closely monitored to avoid potentially fatal
hypoglycemia and hypokalemia.
Do not mix APIDRA with other insulins for intravenous administration.
APIDRA may be diluted only in normal saline solution.
5.9 Drug interactions
Some medications may alter insulin requirements and the risk
for hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia [See Drug Interactions (7)].
BACK TO TOP
6 ADVERSE REACTIONS
| The following adverse
reactions are discussed elsewhere: |
| • |
Hypoglycemia [See Warnings
and Precautions (5.2)]
|
| • |
Hypokalemia [See Warnings and
Precautions (5.4)] |
6.1 Clinical
trial experience
Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying designs, the adverse
reaction rates reported in one clinical trial may not be easily compared to those
rates reported in another clinical trial, and may not reflect the rates actually
observed in clinical practice.
The frequencies of adverse drug reactions during APIDRA clinical trials in patients
with type 1 diabetes mellitus and type 2 diabetes mellitus are listed in the tables
below.
Table 1: Treatment –
emergent adverse events in pooled studies of adults with type 1 diabetes (adverse events
with frequency > 5%)
| |
APIDRA, %
(n=950) |
All comparatorsa, %
(n=641) |
| Nasopharyngitis |
10.6 |
12.9 |
| Hypoglycemiab |
6.8 |
6.7 |
| Upper respiratory tract infection |
6.6 |
5.6 |
| Influenza |
4.0 |
5.0 |
a Insulin lispro, regular human
insulin, insulin aspart
b Only severe symptomatic hypoglycemia
Table 2: Treatment –emergent
adverse events in pooled studies of adults with type 2 diabetes (adverse events with
frequency > 5%)
| |
APIDRA, %
(n=883) |
Regular human insulin, %
(n=883) |
| Upper respiratory tract infection |
10.5 |
7.7 |
| Nasopharyngitis |
7.6 |
8.2 |
| Edema peripheral |
7.5 |
7.8 |
| Influenza |
6.2 |
4.2 |
| Arthralgia |
5.9 |
6.3 |
| Hypertension |
3.9 |
5.3 |
Table 3 summarizes the adverse
reactions occurring with frequency higher than 5% in a clinical study in children and
adolescents with type 1 diabetes treated with APIDRA (n=277) or insulin lispro (n=295).
Table 3: Treatment –emergent
adverse events in children and adolescents with type 1 diabetes (adverse reactions
with frequency > 5%)
| |
APIDRA, %
(n=277) |
Lispro, %
(n=295) |
| Nasopharyngitis |
9.0 |
9.5 |
| Upper respiratory tract infection |
8.3 |
10.8 |
| Headache |
6.9 |
11.2 |
| Hypoglycemic seizure |
6.1 |
4.7 |
| • |
Severe symptomatic hypoglycemia |
Hypoglycemia is the most
commonly observed adverse reaction in patients using insulin, including APIDRA
[See Warnings and Precautions (5.2)]. The rates and incidence of
severe symptomatic hypoglycemia, defined as hypoglycemia requiring intervention
from a third party, were comparable for all treatment regimens (see Table 4).
In the phase 3 clinical trial, children and adolescents with type 1 diabetes
had a higher incidence of severe symptomatic hypoglycemia in the two treatment
groups compared to adults with type 1 diabetes. (see Table 4) [See Clinical
Studies (14)].
Table 4: Severe Symptomatic Hypoglycemia*
| |
Type 1 Diabetes
Adults
12 weeks
with insulin
glargine |
Type 1 Diabetes
Adults
26 weeks
with insulin
glargine |
Type 2
Diabetes
Adults
26 weeks
with NPH
human
insulin
|
Type 1 Diabetes
Pediatrics
26 weeks |
| |
APIDRA
Pre-meal |
APIDRA
Post-meal |
Regular
Human
Insulin |
APIDRA |
Insulin
Lispro |
APIDRA |
Regular
Human
Insulin |
APIDRA |
Insulin
Lispro |
Events
per
month
per
patient |
0.05 |
0.05 |
0.13 |
0.02 |
0.02 |
0.00 |
0.00 |
0.09 |
0.08 |
Percent
of
patients
(n/total N) |
8.4%
(24/286) |
8.4%
(25/296) |
10.1%
(28/278) |
4.8%
(16/339) |
4.0%
(13/333) |
1.4%
(6/416) |
1.2%
(5/420) |
16.2%
(45/277) |
19.3%
(57/295) |
* Severe symptomatic
hypoglycemia defined as a hypoglycemic event requiring the assistance
of another person that met one of the following criteria:
the event was associated with a whole blood referenced blood glucose
<36mg/dL or the event was associated with prompt recovery after
oral carbohydrate, intravenous glucose or glucagon administration.
| • |
Insulin initiation
and intensification of glucose control |
Intensification or rapid
improvement in glucose control has been associated with a transitory, reversible
ophthalmologic refraction disorder, worsening of diabetic retinopathy, and acute
painful peripheral neuropathy. However, long-term glycemic control decreases the
risk of diabetic retinopathy and neuropathy.
Long-term use of insulin,
including APIDRA, can cause lipodystrophy at the site of repeated insulin injections
or infusion. Lipodystrophy includes lipohypertrophy (thickening of adipose tissue)
and lipoatrophy (thinning of adipose tissue), and may affect insulin absorption.
Rotate insulin injection or infusion sites within the same region to reduce the
risk of lipodystrophy. [See Dosage and Administration (2.2, 2.3)].
Weight gain can occur
with insulin therapy, including APIDRA, and has been attributed to the anabolic
effects of insulin and the decrease in glucosuria.
Insulin, including APIDRA,
may cause sodium retention and edema, particularly if previously poor metabolic
control is improved by intensified insulin therapy.
| • |
Adverse Reactions with
Continuous Subcutaneous Insulin Infusion (CSII) |
In a 12-week randomized
study in patients with type 1 diabetes (n=59), the rates of catheter occlusions
and infusion site reactions were similar for APIDRA and insulin aspart treated
patients (Table 5).
Table 5: Catheter Occlusions and Infusion Site Reactions.
| |
APIDRA
(n=29) |
insulin aspart
(n=30) |
| Catheter occlusions/month |
0.08 |
0.15 |
| Infusion site reactions |
10.3% (3/29) |
13.3% (4/30) |
Local Allergy
As with any insulin therapy, patients taking APIDRA may experience redness,
swelling, or itching at the site of injection. These minor reactions usually
resolve in a few days to a few weeks, but in some occasions may require
discontinuation of APIDRA. In some instances, these reactions may be related
to factors other than insulin, such as irritants in a skin cleansing agent
or poor injection technique.
Systemic Allergy
Severe, life-threatening, generalized allergy, including anaphylaxis,
may occur with any insulin, including APIDRA. Generalized allergy to
insulin may cause whole body rash (including pruritus), dyspnea,
wheezing, hypotension, tachycardia, or diaphoresis.
In controlled clinical trials up to 12 months duration, potential systemic
allergic reactions were reported in 79 of 1833 patients (4.3%) who received
APIDRA and 58 of 1524 patients (3.8%) who received the comparator short-acting
insulins. During these trials treatment with APIDRA was permanently discontinued
in 1 of 1833 patients due to a potential systemic allergic reaction.
Localized reactions and generalized myalgias have been reported with the use
of metacresol, which is an excipient of APIDRA.
Antibody Production
In a study in patients with type 1 diabetes (n=333), the concentrations
of insulin antibodies that react with both human insulin and insulin
glulisine (cross-reactive insulin antibodies) remained near baseline
during the first 6 months of the study in the patients treated with
APIDRA. A decrease in antibody concentration was observed during the
following 6 months of the study. In a study in patients with type 2
diabetes (n=411), a similar increase in cross-reactive insulin antibody
concentration was observed in the patients treated with APIDRA and in
the patients treated with human insulin during the first 9 months of
the study. Thereafter the concentration of antibodies decreased in
the APIDRA patients and remained stable in the human insulin patients.
There was no correlation between cross-reactive insulin antibody
concentration and changes in HbA1c, insulin doses, or incidence of
hypoglycemia. The clinical significance of these antibodies is
not known.
APIDRA did not elicit a significant antibody response in a study
of children and adolescents with type 1 diabetes.
6.2 Postmarketing
experience
The following adverse reactions have been identified during post-approval
use of APIDRA.
Because these reactions are reported voluntarily from a population of
uncertain size, it is not always possible to estimate reliably their
frequency or establish a causal relationship to drug exposure.
Medication errors have been reported in which other insulins,
particularly long-acting insulins, have been accidentally
administered instead of APIDRA [See Patient Counseling
Information (17)].
BACK TO TOP
7 DRUG
INTERACTIONS
A number of drugs affect glucose metabolism and may necessitate insulin dose
adjustment and particularly close monitoring.
Drugs that may increase the blood glucose-lowering effect of insulins including
APIDRA, and therefore increase the risk of hypoglycemia, include oral antidiabetic
products, pramlintide, ACE inhibitors, disopyramide, fibrates, fluoxetine, monoamine
oxidase inhibitors, propoxyphene, pentoxifylline, salicylates, somatostatin analogs,
and sulfonamide antibiotics.
Drugs that may reduce the blood-glucose-lowering effect of APIDRA include
corticosteroids, niacin, danazol, diuretics, sympathomimetic agents (e.g.,
epinephrine, albuterol, terbutaline), glucagon, isoniazid, phenothiazine
derivatives, somatropin, thyroid hormones, estrogens, progestogens (e.g.,
in oral contraceptives), protease inhibitors, and atypical antipsychotics.
Beta-blockers, clonidine, lithium salts, and alcohol may either increase
or decrease the blood-glucose-lowering effect of insulin.
Pentamidine may cause hypoglycemia, which may sometimes be followed by
hyperglycemia.
The signs of hypoglycemia may be reduced or absent in patients taking
anti-adrenergic drugs such as beta-blockers, clonidine, guanethidine,
and reserpine.
BACK TO TOP
8 USE
IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS
8.1 Pregnancy
Pregnancy Category C: Reproduction and teratology studies have been
performed with insulin glulisine in rats and rabbits using regular
human insulin as a comparator. Insulin glulisine was given to female
rats throughout pregnancy at subcutaneous doses up to 10 U/kg once
daily (dose resulting in an exposure 2 times the average human dose,
based on body surface area comparison) and did not have any remarkable
toxic effects on embryo-fetal development.
Insulin glulisine was given to female rabbits throughout pregnancy
at subcutaneous doses up to 1.5 Units/kg/day (dose resulting in an
exposure 0.5 times the average human dose, based on body surface area
comparison). Adverse effects on embryo-fetal development were only
seen at maternal toxic dose levels inducing hypoglycemia. Increased
incidence of post-implantation losses and skeletal defects were
observed at a dose level of 1.5 Units/kg once daily (dose resulting
in an exposure 0.5 times the average human dose, based on body
surface area comparison) that also caused mortality in dams. A
slight increased incidence of post-implantation losses was seen
at the next lower dose level of 0.5 Units/kg once daily (dose
resulting in an exposure 0.2 times the average human dose,
based on body surface area comparison) which was also associated
with severe hypoglycemia but there were no defects at that dose.
No effects were observed in rabbits at a dose of 0.25 Units/kg
once daily (dose resulting in an exposure 0.1 times the average
human dose, based on body surface area comparison). The effects
of insulin glulisine did not differ from those observed with
subcutaneous regular human insulin at the same doses and were
attributed to secondary effects of maternal hypoglycemia.
There are no well-controlled clinical studies of the use of APIDRA
in pregnant women. Because animal reproduction studies are not
always predictive of human response, this drug should be used
during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the
potential risk to the fetus. It is essential for patients with
diabetes or a history of gestational diabetes to maintain good
metabolic control before conception and throughout pregnancy.
Insulin requirements may decrease during the first trimester,
generally increase during the second and third trimesters, and
rapidly decline after delivery. Careful monitoring of glucose
control is essential in these patients.
8.3 Nursing
mothers
It is unknown whether insulin glulisine is excreted in human milk.
Because many drugs are excreted in human milk, caution should be
exercised when APIDRA is administered to a nursing woman. Use of
APIDRA is compatible with breastfeeding, but women with diabetes
who are lactating may require adjustments of their insulin doses.
8.4 Pediatric use
The safety and effectiveness of subcutaneous injections of APIDRA have been
established in pediatric patients (age 4 to 17 years) with type 1 diabetes
[See Clinical Studies (14.4)]. APIDRA has not been studied
in pediatric patients with type 1 diabetes younger than 4 years of age and in
pediatric patients with type 2 diabetes.
As in adults, the dosage of APIDRA must be individualized in pediatric
patients based on metabolic needs and frequent monitoring of blood glucose.
8.5 Geriatric Use
In clinical trials (n=2408), APIDRA was administered to 147 patients >65 years
of age and 27 patients >75 years of age. The majority of this small subset of elderly
patients had type 2 diabetes. The change in HbA1c values and hypoglycemia frequencies did not
differ by age. Nevertheless, caution should be exercised when APIDRA is administered to geriatric
patients.
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10. OVERDOSAGE
Excess insulin may cause hypoglycemia and, particularly when given intravenously,
hypokalemia. Mild episodes of hypoglycemia usually can be treated with oral glucose.
Adjustments in drug dosage, meal patterns, or exercise may be needed. More severe
episodes of hypoglycemia with coma, seizure, or neurologic impairment may be treated
with intramuscular/subcutaneous glucagon or concentrated intravenous glucose.
Sustained carbohydrate intake and observation may be necessary because hypoglycemia
may recur after apparent clinical recovery. Hypokalemia must be corrected appropriately.
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11 DESCRIPTION
APIDRA® (insulin glulisine [rDNA origin] injection) is a
rapid-acting human insulin analog used to lower blood glucose. Insulin
glulisine is produced by recombinant DNA technology utilizing a non-pathogenic
laboratory strain of Escherichia coli (K12). Insulin glulisine differs from
human insulin in that the amino acid asparagine at position B3 is replaced
by lysine and the lysine in position B29 is replaced by glutamic acid.
Chemically, insulin glulisine is 3B-lysine-29B-glutamic acid-human insulin,
has the empirical formula C258H384N64O78S6
and a molecular weight of 5823 and has the following structural formula:

APIDRA is a sterile, aqueous,
clear, and colorless solution. Each milliliter of APIDRA contains 100 units (3.49 mg)
insulin glulisine, 3.15 mg metacresol, 6 mg tromethamine, 5 mg sodium chloride,
0.01 mg polysorbate 20, and water for injection. APIDRA has a pH of approximately
7.3. The pH is adjusted by addition of aqueous solutions of hydrochloric acid
and/or sodium hydroxide.
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12 CLINICAL
PHARMACOLOGY
12.1 Mechanism of action
Regulation of glucose metabolism is the primary activity of insulins
and insulin analogs, including insulin glulisine. Insulins lower blood
glucose by stimulating peripheral glucose uptake by skeletal muscle
and fat, and by inhibiting hepatic glucose production. Insulins inhibit
lipolysis and proteolysis, and enhance protein synthesis.
The glucose lowering activities of APIDRA and of regular human insulin
are equipotent when administered by the intravenous route. After subcutaneous
administration, the effect of APIDRA is more rapid in onset and of shorter
duration compared to regular human insulin. [See Pharmacodynamics (12.2)].
12.2 Pharmacodynamics
Studies in healthy volunteers and patients with diabetes demonstrated that
APIDRA has a more rapid onset of action and a shorter duration of activity
than regular human insulin when given subcutaneously.
In a study in patients with type 1 diabetes (n= 20), the glucose-lowering
profiles of APIDRA and regular human insulin were assessed at various times
in relation to a standard meal at a dose of 0.15 Units/kg. (Figure 1.)
The maximum blood glucose excursion ( GLUmax;
baseline subtracted glucose concentration) for APIDRA injected 2 minutes
before a meal was 65 mg/dL compared to 64 mg/dL for regular human insulin
injected 30 minutes before a meal (see Figure 1A), and 84 mg/dL for
regular human insulin injected 2 minutes before a meal (see Figure 1B).
The maximum blood glucose excursion for APIDRA injected 15 minutes after
the start of a meal was 85 mg/dL compared to 84 mg/dL for regular human
insulin injected 2 minutes before a meal (see Figure 1C).
Figure 1. Serial mean blood glucose collected up to 6 hours following a
single dose of APIDRA and regular human insulin. APIDRA given 2 minutes
(APIDRA - pre) before the start of a meal compared to regular human
insulin given 30 minutes (Regular - 30 min) before start of the meal
(Figure 1A) and compared to regular human insulin (Regular - pre)
given 2 minutes before a meal (Figure 1B). APIDRA given 15 minutes
(APIDRA - post) after start of a meal compared to regular human
insulin (Regular - pre) given 2 minutes before a meal (Figure 1C).
On the x-axis zero (0) is the start of a 15-minute meal.
In a randomized, open-label,
two-way crossover study, 16 healthy male subjects received an intravenous infusion
of APIDRA or regular human insulin with saline diluent at a rate of 0.8 milliUnits/kg/min
for two hours. Infusion of the same dose of APIDRA or regular human insulin produced
equivalent glucose disposal at steady state.
12.3 Pharmacokinetics
Absorption and bioavailability
Pharmacokinetic profiles in healthy volunteers and patients with
diabetes (type 1 or type 2) demonstrated that absorption of insulin
glulisine was faster than that of regular human insulin.
In a study in patients with type 1 diabetes (n=20) after subcutaneous
administration of 0.15 Units/kg, the median time to maximum concentration
(Tmax) was 60 minutes (range 40 to 120 minutes) and the peak
concentration (Cmax) was 83 microUnits/mL (range 40 to
131 microUnits/mL) for insulin glulisine compared to a median Tmax of
120 minutes (range 60 to 239 minutes) and a Cmax of 50 microUnits/mL
(range 35 to 71 microUnits/mL) for regular human insulin. (Figure 2)
Figure 2. Pharmacokinetic profiles of insulin glulisine and regular human
insulin in patients with type 1 diabetes after a dose of 0.15 Units/kg.
Insulin glulisine and regular
human insulin were administered subcutaneously at a dose of 0.2 Units/kg in an
euglycemic clamp study in patients with type 2 diabetes (n=24) and a body mass
index (BMI) between 20 and 36 kg/m2. The median time to maximum concentration
(Tmax) was 100 minutes (range 40 to 120 minutes) and the median peak
concentration (Cmax) was 84 microUnits/mL (range 53 to 165 microUnits/mL)
for insulin glulisine compared to a median Tmax of 240 minutes
(range 80 to 360 minutes) and a median Cmax of 41 microUnits/mL
(range 33 to 61 microUnits/mL) for regular human insulin. (Figure 3.)
Figure 3. Pharmacokinetic profiles of insulin glulisine and regular
human insulin in patients with type 2 diabetes after a subcutaneous dose of
0.2 Units/kg.
When APIDRA was
injected subcutaneously into different areas of the body, the
time-concentration profiles were similar. The absolute bioavailability
of insulin glulisine after subcutaneous administration is approximately
70%, regardless of injection area (abdomen 73%, deltoid 71%, thigh 68%).
In a clinical study in healthy volunteers (n=32) the total insulin
glulisine bioavailability was similar after subcutaneous injection
of insulin glulisine and NPH insulin (premixed in the syringe) and
following separate simultaneous subcutaneous injections. There was
27% attenuation of the maximum concentration (Cmax) of
APIDRA after premixing; however, the time to maximum concentration
(Tmax) was not affected. No data are available on mixing
APIDRA with insulin preparations other than NPH insulin. [See
Clinical Studies (14)].
Distribution and elimination
The distribution and elimination of insulin glulisine and regular
human insulin after intravenous administration are similar with
volumes of distribution of 13 and 21 L and half-lives of 13 and
17 minutes, respectively. After subcutaneous administration,
insulin glulisine is eliminated more rapidly than regular human
insulin with an apparent half-life of 42 minutes compared to
86 minutes.
12.4 Clinical pharmacology in specific populations
Pediatric patients
The pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties of APIDRA and
regular human insulin were assessed in a study conducted in children 7
to 11 years old (n=10) and adolescents 12 to 16 years old (n=10) with
type 1 diabetes. The relative differences in pharmacokinetics and
pharmacodynamics between APIDRA and regular human insulin in these
patients with type 1 diabetes were similar to those in healthy adult
subjects and adults with type 1 diabetes.
Race
A study in 24 healthy Caucasians and Japanese subjects compared the
pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics after subcutaneous injection of
insulin glulisine, insulin lispro, and regular human insulin. With
subcutaneous injection of insulin glulisine, Japanese subjects had
a greater initial exposure (33%) for the ratio of AUC(0-1h) to
AUC(0-clamp end) than Caucasians (21%) although the total
exposures were similar. There were similar findings with insulin lispro
and regular human insulin.
Obesity
Insulin glulisine and regular human insulin were administered subcutaneously
at a dose of 0.3 Units/kg in a euglycemic clamp study in obese, non-diabetic
subjects (n=18) with a body mass index (BMI) between 30 and 40 kg/m2.
The median time to maximum concentration (Tmax) was 85 minutes
(range 49 to 150 minutes) and the median peak concentration (Cmax)
was 192 microUnits/mL (range 98 to 380 microUnits/mL) for insulin glulisine
compared to a median Tmax of 150 minutes (range 90 to 240 minutes)
and a median Cmax of 86 microUnits/mL (range 43 to 175 microUnits/mL)
for regular human insulin.
The more rapid onset of action and shorter duration of activity of APIDRA and
insulin lispro compared to regular human insulin were maintained in an obese
non-diabetic population (n= 18). (Figure 4.)
Figure 4. Glucose infusion rates (GIR) in a euglycemic clamp study after
subcutaneous injection of 0.3 Units/kg of APIDRA, insulin lispro or regular
human insulin in an obese population.
Renal impairment
Studies with human insulin have shown increased circulating levels of
insulin in patients with renal failure. In a study performed in 24 non-diabetic
subjects with normal renal function (ClCr >80 mL/min),
moderate renal impairment (30-50 mL/min) and severe renal impairment
(<30 mL/min), the subjects with moderate and severe renal impairment
had increased exposure to insulin glulisine by 29% to 40% and reduced
clearance of insulin glulisine by 20% to 25% compared to subjects with
normal renal function. [See Warnings and Precautions (5.4)].
Hepatic impairment
The effect of hepatic impairment on the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics
of APIDRA has not been studied. Some studies with human insulin have shown
increased circulating levels of insulin in patients with liver failure.
[See Warnings and Precautions (5.4)].
Gender
The effect of gender on the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of
APIDRA has not been studied.
Pregnancy
The effect of pregnancy on the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics
of APIDRA has not been studied.
Smoking
The effect of smoking on the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of
APIDRA has not been studied.
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13 NONCLINICAL
TOXICOLOGY
13.1 Carcinogenesis, mutagenesis, impairment of fertility
Standard 2-year carcinogenicity studies in animals have not been performed.
In Sprague Dawley rats, a 12-month repeat dose toxicity study was conducted
with insulin glulisine at subcutaneous doses of 2.5, 5, 20 or 50 Units/kg
twice daily (dose resulting in an exposure 1, 2, 8, and 20 times the
average human dose, based on body surface area comparison).
There was a non-dose dependent higher incidence of mammary gland tumors in
female rats administered insulin glulisine compared to untreated controls.
The incidence of mammary tumors for insulin glulisine and regular human
insulin was similar. The relevance of these findings to humans is not known.
Insulin glulisine was not mutagenic in the following tests: Ames test,
in vitro mammalian chromosome aberration test in V79 Chinese
hamster cells, and in vivo mammalian erythrocyte micronucleus
test in rats.
In fertility studies in male and female rats at subcutaneous doses up to
10 Units/kg once daily (dose resulting in an exposure 2 times the
average human dose, based on body surface area comparison), no clear
adverse effects on male and female fertility, or general reproductive
performance of animals were observed.
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14 CLINICAL
STUDIES
The safety and efficacy of APIDRA was studied in adult patients with type 1 and
type 2 diabetes (n =1833) and in children and adolescent patients (4 to 17 years)
with type 1 diabetes (n=572). The primary efficacy parameter in these trials was
glycemic control, assessed using glycated hemoglobin (GHb reported as HbA1c equivalent).
14.1 Type 1 Diabetes-Adults
A 26-week, randomized, open-label, active-controlled, non-inferiority study
was conducted in patients with type 1 diabetes to assess the safety and efficacy
of APIDRA (n= 339) compared to insulin lispro (n= 333) when administered
subcutaneously within 15 minutes before a meal. Insulin glargine was administered
once daily in the evening as the basal insulin. There was a 4-week run-in period
with insulin lispro and insulin glargine prior to randomization. Most patients
were Caucasian (97%). Fifty eight percent of the patients were men. The mean
age was 39 years (range 18 to 74 years). Glycemic control, the number of
daily short-acting insulin injections and the total daily doses of APIDRA
and insulin lispro were similar in the two treatment groups (Table 6).
Table 6: Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus–Adult
Treatment duration
Treatment in combination with: |
26 weeks
Insulin glargine |
| |
APIDRA |
Insulin Lispro |
| Glycated hemoglobin (GHb)* (%) |
|
|
| Number of patients |
331 |
322 |
| Baseline mean |
7.6 |
7.6 |
Adjusted mean change
from baseline |
-0.1 |
-0.1 |
Treatment difference:
APIDRA – Insulin Lispro |
0.0 |
95% CI for
treatment difference |
(-0.1; 0.1) |
| |
| Basal insulin dose (Units/day) |
|
|
| Baseline mean |
24 |
24 |
Adjusted mean change
from baseline |
0 |
2 |
Short-acting insulin dose
(Units/day) |
|
|
| Baseline mean |
30 |
31 |
Adjusted mean change
from baseline |
-1 |
-1 |
| |
Mean number of short-acting
insulin injections
per day |
3 |
3 |
| |
| Body weight (kg) |
|
|
| Baseline mean |
73.9 |
74.1 |
Mean change from
baseline |
0.6 |
0.3 |
* GHb reported as HbA1c equivalent
14.2 Type 2
Diabetes-Adults
A 26-week, randomized, open-label, active-controlled, non-inferiority study was
conducted in insulin-treated patients with type 2 diabetes to assess the safety
and efficacy of APIDRA (n= 435) given within 15 minutes before a meal compared
to regular human insulin (n=441) administered 30 to 45 minutes prior to a meal.
NPH human insulin was given twice a day as the basal insulin. All patients
participated in a 4-week run-in period with regular human insulin and NPH
human insulin. Eighty-five percent of patients were Caucasian and 11%
were Black. The mean age was 58 years (range 26 to 84 years). The
average body mass index (BMI) was 34.6 kg/m2. At randomization,
58% of the patients were taking an oral antidiabetic agent. These
patients were instructed to continue use of their oral antidiabetic
agent at the same dose throughout the trial. The majority of patients (79%)
mixed their short-acting insulin with NPH human insulin immediately prior
to injection. The reductions from baseline in GHb were similar between
the 2 treatment groups (see Table 7). No differences between APIDRA and
regular human insulin groups were seen in the number of daily short-acting
insulin injections or basal or short-acting insulin doses. (See Table 7.)
Table 7: Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus–Adult
| Treatment duration |
26 weeks |
| Treatment in combination with: |
NPH human insulin |
|
APIDRA |
Regular Human
Insulin |
Glycated hemoglobin (GHb)* (%)
Number of patients |
404 |
403 |
| Baseline mean |
7.6 |
7.5 |
| Adjusted mean change from baseline |
-0.5 |
-0.3 |
Treatment difference: APIDRA –
Regular Human Insulin |
-0.2 |
| 95% CI for treatment difference |
(-0.3; -0.1) |
| Basal insulin dose (Units/day) |
|
|
| Baseline mean |
59 |
57 |
| Adjusted mean change from baseline |
6 |
6 |
| Short-acting insulin dose (Units/day) |
|
|
| Baseline mean |
32 |
31 |
| Adjusted mean change from baseline |
4 |
5 |
|
|
|
| Mean number of short-acting insulin injections per day |
2 |
2 |
|
|
|
| Body weight (kg) |
|
|
| Baseline mean |
100.5 |
99.2 |
| Mean change from baseline |
1.8 |
2.0 |
* GHB reported as HbA1c equivalent
14.3 Type 1
Diabetes-Adults: Pre- and post-meal administration
A 12-week, randomized, open-label, active-controlled, non-inferiority study
was conducted in patients with type 1 diabetes to assess the safety and efficacy
of APIDRA administered at different times with respect to a meal. APIDRA was
administered subcutaneously either within 15 minutes before a meal (n=286)
or immediately after a meal (n=296) and regular human insulin (n= 278) was
administered subcutaneously 30 to 45 minutes prior to a meal. Insulin glargine
was administered once daily at bedtime as the basal insulin. There was a 4-week
run-in period with regular human insulin and insulin glargine followed by
randomization. Most patients were Caucasian (94%). The mean age was 40 years
(range 18 to 73 years). Glycemic control (see Table 8) was comparable for the
3 treatment regimens. No changes from baseline between the treatments were seen
in the total daily number of short-acting insulin injections. (See Table 8.)
Table 8: Pre- and Post-Meal Administration in Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus–Adult
Treatment duration
Treatment in combination with: |
12 weeks
insulin
glargine |
12 weeks
insulin
glargine |
12 weeks
insulin
glargine |
| |
APIDRA
pre meal |
APIDRA
post meal |
Regular Human
Insulin |
Glycated hemoglobin (GHb)* (%)
Number of patients |
268 |
276 |
257 |
| Baseline mean |
7.7 |
7.7 |
7.6 |
Adjusted mean change
from baseline** |
-0.3 |
-0.1 |
-0.1 |
| Basal insulin dose (Units/day) |
|
|
|
| Baseline mean |
29 |
29 |
28 |
Adjusted mean change
from baseline |
1 |
0 |
1 |
Short-acting insulin
dose (Units/day) |
|
|
|
| Baseline mean |
29 |
29 |
27 |
Adjusted mean change
from baseline |
-1 |
-1 |
2 |
| |
|
|
|
Mean number of short-acting
insulin injections
per day |
3 |
3 |
3 |
| |
|
|
|
| Body weight (kg) |
|
|
|
| Baseline mean |
79.2 |
80.3 |
78.9 |
Mean change from
baseline |
0.3 |
-0.3 |
0.3 |
*GHb reported as HbA1c equivalent
**Adjusted mean change from baseline treatment difference (98.33% CI for treatment difference):
APIDRA pre meal vs. Regular Human Insulin - 0.1 (-0.3; 0.0)
APIDRA post meal vs. Regular Human Insulin 0.0 (-0.1; 0.2)
APIDRA post meal vs. pre meal 0.2 (0.0; 0.3)
14.4 Type 1
Diabetes-Pediatric patients
A 26-week, randomized, open-label, active-controlled, non-inferiority study
was conducted in children and adolescents older than 4 years of age with
type 1 diabetes mellitus to assess the safety and efficacy of APIDRA (n= 277)
compared to insulin lispro (n= 295) when administered subcutaneously within
15 minutes before a meal. Patients also received insulin glargine (administered
once daily in the evening) or NPH insulin (administered once in the morning
and once in the evening). There was a 4-week run-in period with insulin lispro
and insulin glargine or NPH prior to randomization. Most patients were
Caucasian (91%). Fifty percent of the patients were male. The mean age
was 12.5 years (range 4 to 17 years). Mean BMI was 20.6 kg/m2.
Glycemic control (see Table 9) was comparable for the two treatment regimens.
Table 9: Results from a 26-week study in pediatric patients with
type 1 diabetes mellitus
| |
APIDRA |
Lispro |
| Number of patients |
271 |
291 |
| Basal Insulin |
NPH or insulin glargine |
NPH or insulin glargine |
| Glycated hemoglobin (GHb)* (%) |
|
|
| Baseline mean |
8.2 |
8.2 |
Adjusted mean change
from Baseline |
0.1 |
0.2 |
Treatment Difference:
Mean (95% confidence
interval) |
-0.1 (-0.2, 0.1) |
| Basal insulin dose (Units/kg/day) |
|
|
| Baseline mean |
0.5 |
0.5 |
| Mean change from baseline |
0.0 |
0.0 |
| Short-acting insulin dose (Units/kg/day) |
|
|
| Baseline mean |
0.5 |
0.5 |
| Mean change from baseline |
0.0 |
0.0 |
Mean number of short-
acting insulin injections
per day |
3 |
3 |
| Baseline mean body weight (kg) |
51.5 |
50.8 |
| Mean weight change from baseline (kg) |
2.2 |
2.2 |
*GHb reported as HbA1c equivalent
14.5 Type 1 Diabetes-Adults:
Continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion
A 12-week randomized, active control study (APIDRA versus insulin aspart) conducted
in adults with type 1 diabetes (APIDRA n= 29, insulin aspart n=30) evaluated the
use of APIDRA in an external continuous subcutaneous insulin pump. All patients
were Caucasian. The mean age was 46 years (range 21 to 73 years). The mean GHb
increased from baseline to endpoint in both treatment groups (from 6.8% to 7.0%
for APIDRA; from 7.1% to 7.2% for insulin aspart).
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16 HOW
SUPPLIED/STORAGE AND HANDLING
16.1 How supplied
APIDRA 100 units per mL (U-100) is available as:
| 10 mL vials |
NDC 0088-2500-33 |
| 3 mL cartridge system*, package of 5 |
NDC 0088-2500-52 |
* Cartridge systems are
for use only in OptiClik® (Insulin Delivery Device)
16.2 Storage
Do not use after the expiration date.
Unopened Vial/Cartridge System
Unopened APIDRA vials and cartridge systems should be stored in a
refrigerator, 36°F-46°F (2°C-8°C). Protect from
light. APIDRA should not be stored in the freezer and it should not
be allowed to freeze. Discard if it has been frozen.
Unopened vials/cartridge systems not stored in a refrigerator
must be used within 28 days.
Open (In-Use) Vial:
Opened vials, whether or not refrigerated, must be used within 28 days.
If refrigeration is not possible, the open vial in use can be kept
unrefrigerated for up to 28 days away from direct heat and light, as
long as the temperature is not greater than 77°F (25°C).
Open (In-Use) Cartridge System:
The opened (in-use) cartridge system inserted in OptiClik® should
NOT be refrigerated but should be kept below 77°F (25°C) away
from direct heat and light. The opened (in-use) cartridge system must
be discarded after 28 days. Do not store OptiClik®, with or without
cartridge system, in a refrigerator at any time.
Infusion sets:
Infusion sets (reservoirs, tubing, and catheters) and the APIDRA in
the reservoir should be discarded after 48 hours of use or after
exposure to temperatures that exceed 98.6°F (37°C).
Intravenous use:
Infusion bags prepared as indicated under DOSAGE AND
ADMINISTRATION (2.4) are stable at
room temperature for 48 hours.
16.3 Preparation and Handling
After dilution for intravenous use, the solution should be inspected
visually for particulate matter and discoloration prior to administration.
Do not use the solution if it has become cloudy or contains particles;
use only if it is clear and colorless. APIDRA is not compatible with
Dextrose solution and Ringers solution and, therefore, cannot be used
with these solution fluids. The use of APIDRA with other solutions has
not been studied and is, therefore, not recommended.
Cartridge system: If OptiClik® (the Insulin Delivery
Device for APIDRA) malfunctions, APIDRA may be drawn from the cartridge
system into a U-100 syringe and injected.
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17 PATIENT
COUNSELING INFORMATION
See FDA-approved patient labeling.
17.1 Instructions for all patients
Patients should be instructed on self-management procedures including
glucose monitoring, proper injection technique, and management of
hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia.
Patients must be instructed on handling of special situations such
as intercurrent conditions (illness, stress, or emotional disturbances),
an inadequate or skipped insulin dose, inadvertent administration of an
increased insulin dose, inadequate food intake, and skipped meals.
Refer patients to the APIDRA Patient Information Leaflet for
additional information.
Women with diabetes should be advised to inform their doctor if
they are pregnant or are contemplating pregnancy.
Accidental mix-ups between APIDRA and other insulins, particularly
long-acting insulins, have been reported. To avoid medication errors
between APIDRA and other insulins, patients should be instructed to
always check the insulin label before each injection.
17.2 For patients using continuous
subcutaneous insulin pumps
Patients using external pump infusion therapy should be trained appropriately.
The following insulin pumps† have been used in APIDRA clinical trials
conducted by sanofi-aventis, the manufacturer of APIDRA:
| |
• |
Disetronic®
H-Tron® plus V100 and D-Tron® with Disetronic
catheters (Rapid™, Rapid C™,
Rapid D™, and Tender™) |
| |
• |
MiniMed® Models 506,
507, 507c and 508 with MiniMed catheters (Sof-set Ultimate QR™,
and Quick-set™). |
Before using a
different insulin pump with APIDRA, read the pump label to make sure
the pump has been evaluated with APIDRA.
To minimize insulin degradation, infusion set occlusion, and loss of
the preservative (metacresol), the infusion sets (reservoir, tubing,
and catheter) and the APIDRA in the reservoir should be replaced every
48 hours and a new infusion site should be selected. The temperature
of the insulin may exceed ambient temperature when the pump housing,
cover, tubing or sport case is exposed to sunlight or radiant heat.
Insulin exposed to temperatures higher than 98.6°F (37°C) should be
discarded. Infusion sites that are erythematous, pruritic, or thickened
should be reported to the healthcare professional, and a new site selected
because continued infusion may increase the skin reaction or alter the
absorption of APIDRA.
Pump or infusion set malfunctions or insulin degradation can lead
to rapid hyperglycemia and ketosis. This is especially pertinent
for rapid-acting insulin analogs that are more rapidly absorbed
through skin and have a shorter duration of action. Prompt
identification and correction of the cause of hyperglycemia
or ketosis is necessary. Problems include pump malfunction,
infusion set occlusion, leakage, disconnection or kinking,
and degraded insulin. Less commonly, hypoglycemia from pump
malfunction may occur. If these problems cannot be promptly
corrected, patients should resume therapy with subcutaneous
insulin injection and contact their healthcare professional.
[See Dosage and Administration (2.3),
Warnings and Precautions (5.7), and How
Supplied/Storage and Handling (16)].
sanofi-aventis U.S. LLC
Bridgewater, NJ 08807
©2008 sanofi-aventis U.S. LLC
†The brands listed are the registered trademarks of
their respective owners and are not trademarks of sanofi-aventis U.S. LLC
BACK TO TOP
Patient Information
APIDRA® 3 mL cartridge system
(300 units per cartridge system)
100 units per mL (U-100)
(insulin glulisine [recombinant DNA origin] injection)
Read the “Patient
Information” that comes with APIDRA (uh-PEE-druh) before you start using
it and each time you get a refill. There may be new information. This leaflet
does not take the place of talking with your healthcare provider about your
diabetes or treatment. If you have questions about APIDRA or about diabetes,
talk with your healthcare provider.
What is the most important information I should know about APIDRA?
| |
• |
Do not change the insulin
you use without talking to your healthcare provider. Any change in insulin strength,
manufacturer, type (for example: regular, NPH, analogs), species (beef, pork, beef-pork,
human) or method of manufacture (recombinant DNA versus animal-source insulin) may need
a change in the dose you are using. This dose change may be needed right away or later
on. Sometimes this dose change may happen during the first several weeks or months on
the new insulin. Doses of oral anti-diabetic medicines may also need to change, if your
insulin is changed. |
| |
• |
You must test your blood sugar
levels while using an insulin, such as APIDRA. Your healthcare provider will
tell you how often you should test your blood sugar level, and what to do if it
is high or low. |
| |
• |
APIDRA comes as U-100 insulin.
It contains 3 milliliters (mL) of APIDRA. One milliliter of U-100 insulin contains
100 units of insulin. (1 mL = 1 cc). |
What is Diabetes?
| |
• |
Your body needs insulin
to turn sugar (glucose) into energy. If your body does not make enough insulin, you need
to take more insulin so you will not have too much sugar in your blood. |
| |
• |
Insulin injections
are important in keeping your diabetes under control. But other factors can have an
effect on your diabetes, such as the foods you eat, how often you check your blood
sugars, and your exercise level. |
What is APIDRA?
| |
• |
APIDRA (insulin glulisine
[recombinant DNA origin]) is a rapid-acting man-made insulin. APIDRA is used
to treat patients with diabetes for the control of high blood sugar. |
| |
• |
APIDRA is a clear,
colorless, sterile solution for injection under the skin (subcutaneously). APIDRA may
also be given by infusion into one of your veins (intravenously) by healthcare providers
only. |
| |
• |
APIDRA starts working
faster than regular insulin and does not work as long. APIDRA is used with a longer-acting
insulin or by itself as insulin pump therapy to maintain proper blood sugar control. |
| |
• |
You need a prescription
to get APIDRA. Always be sure you receive the right insulin from the pharmacy. |
Who should NOT take APIDRA?
Do not take APIDRA if:
| |
• |
your blood sugar is
too low (hypoglycemia). After treating your low blood sugar, follow your healthcare
provider’s instructions on the use of Apidra. |
| |
• |
you are allergic to
insulin glulisine or any of the inactive ingredients in APIDRA. Check with your
healthcare provider if you are not sure. |
What should I tell my healthcare provider before taking APIDRA?
Tell your healthcare provider:
| |
• |
about all of your medical
conditions, including liver or kidney problems. Your dose may need to be adjusted. |
| |
• |
if you are pregnant
or plan to become pregnant. It is not known if APIDRA may harm your unborn baby. It is
very important to maintain control of your blood sugar levels during pregnancy. Your
healthcare provider will decide which insulin is best for you during your pregnancy. |
| |
• |
if you are
breast-feeding or plan to breast-feed. It is not known whether APIDRA passes into
your milk. Many medicines, including insulin, pass into human milk, and could affect
your baby. Talk to your healthcare provider about the best way to feed your baby. |
| |
• |
about all the medicines you take,
including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Your APIDRA
dose may change if you take other medicines. For more information look under Medicines, under the
heading “What can affect how much insulin I need?”. |
How should I use APIDRA?
See the “Instructions for OptiClik® Use” section
for additional information.
| |
• |
Follow the instructions
given by your healthcare provider about the type or types of insulin you are using. Do not
make any changes with your insulin unless you have talked to your healthcare provider.
Your insulin needs may change because of illness, stress, other medicines, or changes
in diet or activity level. Talk to your healthcare provider about how to adjust your
insulin dose. |
| |
• |
You should take APIDRA
within 15 minutes before a meal or within 20 minutes after starting a meal. Only use
APIDRA that is clear and colorless. If your APIDRA is cloudy or colored, return it
to your pharmacy for a replacement. |
| |
• |
Follow your healthcare
provider’s instructions for testing your blood sugar. |
| |
• |
Inject APIDRA under
your skin (subcutaneously) in your upper arm, abdomen (stomach area), or thigh (upper leg).
Never inject it into a vein or muscle. |
| |
• |
Change (rotate)
injection sites within the same body area. |
What kind of insulin Pen
should I use with APIDRA cartridge system?
| |
• |
Always use OptiClik® device
distributed by sanofi-aventis U.S. LLC with your APIDRA cartridge system. If you use any other device
than OptiClik® insulin Pen with APIDRA cartridge system, you may get the wrong dose
of insulin causing serious problems for you, such as a blood sugar level that is too low or too high.
Always use a new needle each time you give APIDRA injection. |
| |
• |
NEEDLES AND INSULIN
PEN MUST NOT BE SHARED. |
| |
• |
Disposable needle
should be used only once. Used needle should be placed in sharps containers (such as
red biohazard containers), hard plastic containers (such as detergent bottles), or
metal containers (such as an empty coffee can). Such containers should be sealed
and disposed of properly. |
Instructions for OptiClik® Use
It is important to read, understand, and follow the step-by-step instructions in the
“OptiClik® Instruction Leaflet” before using
OptiClik® insulin Pen. Failure to follow the instructions may result
in getting too much or too little insulin. If you have lost your leaflet or have
a question, go to www.opticlik.com or call 1-800-633-1610.
OptiClik® insulin Pen is for use with BD Ultra-Fine needles.
The following general notes should be taken into consideration before
injecting APIDRA:
| • |
Always wash your hands
before handling the cartridge system and/or the OptiClik® insulin Pen. |
| • |
Always attach a new needle
before use. |
| • |
Always perform the
safety test before use. |
| • |
Check the insulin solution
in the cartridge system to make sure it is clear, colorless, and free of particles.
If it is not, throw it away. |
| • |
Decide on an injection area - either
upper arm, thigh, or abdomen. Do not use the same injection site as your last injection. |
| • |
After injecting APIDRA, leave
the needle in the skin for an additional 10 seconds. Then pull the needle straight out.
Gently press on the spot where you injected yourself for a few seconds. Do not rub
the area. |
| • |
Do not drop the OptiClik®
insulin Pen. |
If your blood glucose
reading is high or low, tell your healthcare provider so the dose can be adjusted.
What can affect how much insulin I need?
Illness. Illness may change how much insulin you need. It is a good idea to
think ahead and make a “sick day” plan with your healthcare provider
in advance so you will be ready when this happens. Be sure to test your blood sugar
more often and call your healthcare provider if you are sick.
Medicines. Many medicines can affect your insulin needs. Other medicines,
including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins and herbal supplements,
can change the way insulin works. You may need a different dose of insulin when you
are taking certain other medicines. Know all the medicines you take, including
prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins and herbal supplements.
You may want to keep a list of the medicines you take. You can show this list
to all your healthcare providers and pharmacists anytime you get a new medicine
or refill. Your healthcare provider will tell you if your insulin dose needs to
be changed.
Meals. The amount of food you eat can affect your insulin needs.
If you eat less food, skip meals, or eat more food than usual, you may
need a different dose of insulin. Talk to your healthcare provider if
you change your diet so that you know how to adjust your APIDRA and
other insulin doses.
Alcohol. Alcohol, including beer and wine, may affect the way
APIDRA works and affect your blood sugar levels. Talk to your healthcare
provider about drinking alcohol.
Exercise or Activity level. Exercise or activity level may change
the way your body uses insulin. Check with your healthcare provider before
you start an exercise program because your dose may need to be changed.
Travel. If you travel across time zones, talk with your healthcare
provider about how to time your injections. When you travel, wear your
medical alert identification. Take extra insulin and supplies with you.
Pregnancy or nursing. The effects of APIDRA on an unborn child or
on a nursing baby are unknown. Therefore, tell your healthcare provider if
you are planning to have a baby, are pregnant, or nursing a baby. Good
control of diabetes is especially important during pregnancy and nursing.
What are the possible side effects of APIDRA and other insulins?
Insulins, including APIDRA, can cause hypoglycemia (low blood sugar),
hyperglycemia (high blood sugar), allergy, and skin reactions.
Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar):
Hypoglycemia is often called an “insulin reaction” or “low blood sugar”.
It may happen when you do not have enough sugar in your blood. Common causes of hypoglycemia are
illness, emotional or physical stress, too much insulin, too little food or missed meals, and too
much exercise or activity.
Early warning signs of hypoglycemia may be different, less noticeable or not
noticeable at all in some people. That is why it is important to check your
blood sugar as you have been advised by your healthcare provider.
Hypoglycemia can happen with:
| |
• |
Taking too much insulin.
This can happen when too much insulin is injected. For pump users it could happen if the pump
dose is too high. |
| |
• |
Not enough carbohydrate
(sugar or starch) intake. This can happen if: a meal or snack is missed or delayed. |
| |
• |
Vomiting or diarrhea that
decreases the amount of sugar absorbed by your body. |
| |
• |
Intake of alcohol. |
| |
• |
Medicines that affect insulin.
Be sure to discuss all your medicines with your healthcare provider. Do not start any new
medicines until you know how they may affect your insulin dose. |
| |
• |
Medical conditions
that can affect your blood sugar levels or insulin. These conditions include diseases
of the adrenal glands, the pituitary, the thyroid gland, the liver, and the kidney. |
| |
• |
Too much glucose use
by the body. This can happen if you exercise too much or have a fever. |
| |
• |
Injecting insulin
the wrong way or in the wrong injection area. |
Hypoglycemia can be mild to
severe. Its onset may be rapid. Some patients have few or no warning symptoms,
including:
| |
• |
patients with diabetes
for a long time |
| |
• |
patients with diabetic
neuropathy (nerve problems) |
| |
• |
or patients using
certain medicines for high blood pressure or heart problems. |
Hypoglycemia may reduce your
ability to drive a car or use mechanical equipment and you may risk injury to
yourself or others.
Severe hypoglycemia can be dangerous and can cause temporary or permanent harm
to your heart or brain. It may cause unconsciousness, seizures, or death.
Symptoms of hypoglycemia may include:
| • |
anxiety, irritability,
restlessness, trouble concentrating, personality changes, mood changes, or
other abnormal behavior |
| • |
tingling in your hands,
feet, lips, or tongue |
| • |
dizziness, light-headedness,
or drowsiness |
| • |
nightmares or trouble sleeping |
| • |
headache |
| • |
blurred vision |
| • |
slurred speech |
| • |
palpitations (fast heart beat) |
| • |
sweating |
| • |
tremor (shaking) |
| • |
unsteady gait (walking). |
If you have hypoglycemia
often or it is hard for you to know if you have the symptoms of hypoglycemia,
talk to your healthcare provider.
Mild to moderate hypoglycemia is treated by eating or drinking carbohydrates
such as fruit juice, raisins, sugar candies, milk or glucose tablets. Talk to
your healthcare provider about the amount of carbohydrates you should eat to
treat mild to moderate hypoglycemia.
Severe hypoglycemia may require the help of another person or emergency
medical people. A person with hypoglycemia who is unable to take foods
or liquids with sugar by mouth, or is unconscious needs medical help
fast and will need treatment with a glucagon injection or glucose given
intravenously (IV). Without medical help right away, serious reactions
or even death could happen.
Hyperglycemia (high blood glucose):
Hyperglycemia happens when you have too much sugar in your blood.
Usually, it means there is not enough insulin to break down the
food you eat into energy your body can use. Hyperglycemia can
be caused by a fever, an infection, stress, eating more than you
should, taking less insulin than prescribed, or it can mean your
diabetes is getting worse.
Hyperglycemia can happen with:
| |
• |
Insufficient (too little) insulin.
This can happen from: |
| |
|
– |
injecting too little or no insulin |
| |
|
– |
incorrect storage (freezing, excessive heat) |
| |
|
– |
use after the expiration date. |
For pump users this can also
be caused when the bolus dose of APIDRA infusion or the basal infusion is set too
low or the pump is delivering too little insulin.
| |
• |
Too much carbohydrate intake.
This can happen if you eat larger meals, eat more often or increase the amount of carbohydrate
in your meals. |
| |
• |
Medicines that affect insulin.
Be sure to discuss all your medicines with your healthcare provider. Do not start any new
medicines until you know how they may affect your insulin dose. |
| |
• |
Medical conditions that
affect insulin. These medical conditions include fevers, infections, heart attacks, and stress. |
| |
• |
Injecting insulin the
wrong way or in the wrong injection area. |
Testing your blood or urine often
will let you know if you have hyperglycemia. If your tests are often high, tell your
healthcare provider so your dose of insulin can be changed.
Hyperglycemia can be mild
or severe. It can progress to diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) or very high glucose
levels (hyperosmolar coma) and result in unconsciousness and death.
Although diabetic ketoacidosis occurs most often in patients with type 1 diabetes,
it can also happen in patients with type 2 diabetes who become very sick. Because
some patients get few symptoms of hyperglycemia, it is important to check your
blood sugar regularly.
Symptoms of hyperglycemia include:
| • |
confusion or drowsiness |
| • |
increased thirst |
| • |
decreased appetite, nausea, or vomiting |
| • |
rapid heart rate |
| • |
increased urination and
dehydration (too little fluid in your body). |
Symptoms of DKA also include:
| • |
fruity smelling breath |
| • |
fast, deep breathing |
| • |
stomach area (abdominal) pain. |
Severe or continuing
hyperglycemia or DKA needs evaluation and treatment right away by your
healthcare provider.
Other possible side effects of APIDRA include:
Serious allergic reactions:
Some times severe, life-threatening allergic reactions can happen with insulin.
If you think you are having a severe allergic reaction, get medical help right
away. Signs of insulin allergy include:
| • |
rash all over your body |
| • |
shortness of breath |
| • |
wheezing (trouble breathing) |
| • |
fast pulse |
| • |
sweating |
| • |
low blood pressure. |
Reactions at the injection site:
Injecting insulin can cause the following reactions on the skin at the injection site:
| • |
little depression in the
skin (lipoatrophy) |
| • |
skin thickening (lipohypertrophy) |
| • |
red, swelling, itchy skin
(injection site reaction). |
You can reduce the chance of
getting an injection site reaction if you change (rotate) the injection site each
time. An injection site reaction should clear up in a few days or a few weeks. If
injection site reactions do not go away or keep happening, call your healthcare
provider.
These are not all the side effects of APIDRA. Call your doctor for medical advice
about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-332-1088.
How should I store APIDRA?
Unopened APIDRA:
| |
• |
Do not use APIDRA after
the expiration date stamped on the label. |
| |
• |
Store all unopened
APIDRA in a refrigerator (not the freezer) between 36°F to 46°F (2°C
to 8°C). Do not allow it to freeze. Do not use APIDRA if it has been frozen. |
| |
• |
Keep APIDRA out of
direct heat and light. |
| |
• |
Do not use APIDRA
if it has been overheated. |
| |
• |
Do not use APIDRA
if it is cloudy, colored, or if you see particles. |
Opened APIDRA:
Cartridge:
| |
• |
Store the opened
cartridge system below 77°F (25°C) and away from direct heat and light. |
| |
• |
Throw away the cartridge
system 28 days after the first use even if it still contains APIDRA. |
| |
• |
Do not store an opened
cartridge system or OptiClik® insulin Pen in a refrigerator. |
| |
• |
Do not use APIDRA if it is
cloudy, colored, or if you see particles. |
General Information about APIDRA
| • |
Use APIDRA only to treat your
diabetes. Do not give or share APIDRA with another person, even if they have
diabetes also. It may harm them. |
| • |
The active ingredient in APIDRA
is insulin glulisine. The concentration of insulin glulisine is 100 units per milliliter (mL),
or U-100. APIDRA also contains metacresol, tromethamine, sodium chloride, polysorbate 20,
and water for injection as inactive ingredients. Hydrochloric acid and/or sodium hydroxide
may be added to adjust the pH. |
| • |
This leaflet summarizes the most
important information about APIDRA. If you would like more information, talk with your
healthcare provider. You can ask your healthcare provider for information about APIDRA
that is written for healthcare providers. For more information about APIDRA call
1-800-633-1610 or go to website www.apidra.com. |
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
DIABETES FORECAST is a national magazine designed especially for patients with
diabetes and their families and is available by subscription from the
American Diabetes Association, (ADA), P.O. Box 363, Mt. Morris, IL 61054-0363,
1-800-DIABETES (1-800-342-2383). You may also visit the ADA website
at www.diabetes.org.
Another publication, COUNTDOWN, is available from the Juvenile Diabetes
Research Foundation International (JDRF), 120 Wall Street, 19th Floor,
New York, New York 10005, 1-800-JDF-CURE (1-800-533-2873). You may also
visit the JDRF website at www.jdf.org.
To get more information about diabetes, check with your healthcare
provider or diabetes educator or visit www.DiabetesWatch.com.
Additional information about APIDRA or OptiClik® can be
obtained by calling 1-800-633-1610 or by visiting
www.apidra.com or
www.opticlik.com.
Rev. August 2008
sanofi-aventis U.S. LLC
Bridgewater NJ 08807
©2008 sanofi-aventis U.S. LLC
BACK TO TOP
Patient Information
APIDRA® 10 mL vial (1000 units per vial)
100 units per mL (U-100)
(insulin glulisine [recombinant DNA origin] injection)
Read the “Patient Information”
that comes with APIDRA (uh-PEE-druh) before you start using it and each time you get a refill.
There may be new information. This leaflet does not take the place of talking with your
healthcare provider about your diabetes or treatment. If you have questions about APIDRA
or about diabetes, talk with your healthcare provider.
What is the most important information I should know about APIDRA?
| |
• |
Do not change the
insulin you use without talking to your healthcare provider. Any change in insulin
strength, manufacturer, type (regular, NPH, analog), species (beef, pork, beef-pork, human)
or method of manufacture (recombinant DNA versus animal-source insulin) may need a change
in the dose you are using. This dose change may be needed right away or later on.
Sometimes this dose change may happen during the first several weeks or months on
the new insulin. Doses of oral anti-diabetic medicines may also need to change,
if your insulin is changed. |
| |
• |
You must test your blood
sugar levels while using an insulin such as APIDRA. Your healthcare provider will tell you
how often you should test your blood sugar level, and what to do if it is high or low. |
| |
• |
When used in a pump
do not mix APIDRA with any other insulin or liquid. |
| |
• |
APIDRA comes as U-100 insulin.
It contains 10 milliliters (mL) of APIDRA. One milliliter (mL) of U-100 insulin contains
100 units of insulin. (1 mL = 1 cc). |
What is diabetes?
| |
• |
Your body needs insulin
to turn sugar (glucose) into energy. If your body does not make enough insulin, you need to
take more insulin so you will not have too much sugar in your blood. |
| |
• |
Insulin injections
are important in keeping your diabetes under control. But other factors can have an
effect on your diabetes, such as the foods you eat, how often you check your blood
sugars, and your exercise level. |
What is APIDRA?
| |
• |
APIDRA (insulin glulisine
[recombinant DNA origin]) is a rapid-acting man-made insulin. APIDRA is used to treat patients
with diabetes for the control of high blood sugar. |
| |
• |
APIDRA is a clear,
colorless, sterile solution for injection under the skin (subcutaneously). APIDRA may
also be given by infusion into one of your veins (intravenously) by healthcare
providers only. |
| |
• |
You need a prescription
to get APIDRA. Always be sure you receive the right insulin from the pharmacy. |
Who should not take APIDRA?
Do not take APIDRA if:
| |
• |
your blood sugar is too
low (hypoglycemia). After treating your low blood sugar, follow your healthcare provider’s
instructions on the use of Apidra. |
| |
• |
you are allergic to insulin
glulisine or any of the inactive ingredients in APIDRA. Check with your healthcare provider
if you are not sure. |
What should I tell my healthcare
provider before taking APIDRA?
Tell your healthcare provider:
| |
• |
about all of your medical
conditions, including liver or kidney problems. Your dose may need to be adjusted. |
| |
• |
if you are pregnant
or plan to become pregnant. It is not known if APIDRA may harm your unborn baby. It is
very important to maintain control of your blood sugar levels during pregnancy. Your
healthcare provider will decide which insulin is best for you during your pregnancy. |
| |
• |
if you are breast-feeding
or plan to breast-feed. It is not known whether APIDRA passes into your milk. Many medicines,
including insulin, pass into human milk, and could affect your baby. Talk to your healthcare
provider about the best way to feed your baby. |
| |
• |
about all the medicines
you take, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins and herbal
supplements. Your APIDRA dose may change if you take other medicines. For more information
look under Medicines, under the heading “What can affect how much insulin I need?”. |
How should I use APIDRA?
See “Instructions for Use” including the sections
“How do I draw the insulin into the syringe?” and
“How should I infuse APIDRA with an external subcutaneous insulin
infusion pump?” for additional information.
| |
• |
Follow the instructions
given by your healthcare provider about the type or types of insulin you are using. Do not
make any changes with your insulin unless you have talked to your healthcare provider.
Your insulin needs may change because of illness, stress, other medicines, or changes in
diet or activity level. Talk to your healthcare provider about how to adjust your
insulin dose. |
| |
• |
You should take
APIDRA within 15 minutes before a meal or within 20 minutes after starting a meal. |
| |
• |
Only use APIDRA
that is clear and colorless. If your APIDRA is cloudy or colored, return it to your
pharmacy for a replacement. |
| |
• |
Follow your
healthcare provider’s instructions for testing your blood sugar. |
| |
• |
Inject APIDRA under
your skin (subcutaneously) in your upper arm, abdomen (stomach area), or thigh (upper leg).
Never inject it into a vein or muscle. |
| |
• |
If you use a pump,
infuse APIDRA through the skin of your abdomen. |
| |
• |
Change (rotate)
injection sites within the same body area. |
What kind of syringe
should I use?
| |
• |
Always use a syringe that
is marked for U-100 insulin. If you use a wrong syringe, you may get the wrong dose. You could
get a blood sugar level that is too low or too high. |
Mixing with APIDRA
| |
• |
If you are mixing APIDRA
with NPH human insulin, draw APIDRA into the syringe first. Inject the mixture right away.
Do not mix APIDRA with any other type of insulin than NPH. |
| |
• |
Do not mix APIDRA with
any other insulin when used in a pump. |
Instructions for Use
| |
How do I draw the
insulin into the syringe? |
| |
• |
The syringe must be new
and does not contain any other medicine. |
| |
• |
Do not mix APIDRA with
any other type of insulin than NPH. If you are mixing APIDRA with NPH human insulin, draw
APIDRA into the syringe first. Inject the mixture right away. |
Follow these steps:
| 1. |
Wash your hands. |
| 2. |
Check the insulin to make
sure it is clear and colorless. Do not use the insulin after the expiration date
stamped on the label, if it is colored or cloudy or if you see particles in the
solution. |
| 3. |
If you are using a new vial,
remove the protective cap. Do not remove the stopper. |
| 4. |
Wipe the top of the vial
with an alcohol swab. You do not have to shake the vial of APIDRA before use. |
| 5. |
Use a new needle and
syringe every time you give an injection. Use disposable syringes and needles
only once. Throw them away properly. Never share needles and syringes. |
| 6. |
Draw air into the
syringe equal to your insulin dose. |
| 7. |
Put the needle through
the rubber top of the vial and push the plunger to inject the air into the vial. |
| 8. |
Leave the syringe in
the vial and turn both upside down. Hold the syringe and vial firmly in one hand. |
| 9. |
Make sure the tip of the
needle is in the insulin. With your free hand, pull the plunger to withdraw the
correct dose into the syringe. |
| 10. |
Before you take the needle out of
the vial, check the syringe for air bubbles. If bubbles are in the syringe, hold the syringe
straight up and tap the side of the syringe until the bubbles float to the top. Push the
bubbles out with the plunger and draw insulin back in until you have the correct dose.
If you are mixing APIDRA with NPH insulin, check with your healthcare provider on how
to mix. |
| 11. |
Remove the needle from the vial.
Do not let the needle touch anything. You are now ready to inject. |
For information on mixing
insulins, see section “Mixing with Apidra”.
How do I inject APIDRA?
Inject APIDRA under your skin. Take APIDRA as prescribed by your healthcare provider.
| Follow these steps: |
| 1. |
Decide on an injection area - either
upper arm, thigh or abdomen. Injection sites within an injection area must be different from
one injection to the next. |
| 2. |
Use alcohol or soap and water to
clean the injection site. The injection site should be dry before you inject. |
| 3. |
Pinch the skin. Stick the needle
in the way your healthcare provider showed you. Release the skin. |
| 4. |
Slowly push in the plunger of
the syringe all the way, making sure you have injected all the insulin. Leave the
needle in the skin for about 10 seconds. |
|
Pull the needle straight out
and gently press on the spot where you injected yourself for several seconds. Do
not rub the area. |
| 5. |
Follow your healthcare provider’s
instructions for throwing away the needle and syringe. Do not recap the used needle. The used
needle and syringe should be placed in sharps containers (such as red biohazard containers),
hard plastic containers (such as detergent bottles), or metal containers (such as an empty
coffee can). Such containers should be sealed and disposed of properly. |
How should I infuse APIDRA with an
external subcutaneous insulin infusion pump?
Do not mix APIDRA with any other insulin or liquid when used in a pump.
| |
• |
APIDRA is recommended for
use in the following pumps and infusion sets: Disetronic® H-Tron®
plus V100 and D-Tron® with Disetronic catheters (Rapid™,
Rapid C™, Rapid D™, and Tender™);
MiniMed® Models 506, 507, 507c and 508 with MiniMed catheters (Sof-set
Ultimate QR™, and Quick-set™)‡. See the instruction
manual of your specific pump on proper use of insulin in a pump. Call your healthcare
provider if you have questions about using the pump. |
| |
• |
If the pump or infusion
set does not work right, you may not receive the right amount of insulin. Hypoglycemia
(blood sugar that is too low), hyperglycemia (blood sugar that is too high), or ketosis
(when fats instead of sugar are broken down for energy because of lack of insulin,
chemicals called ketones appear in the blood) can happen. See instruction manual
for your pump. You may have less time to identify and correct the problem than with
regular insulin. This is because APIDRA starts working faster and does not work
as long. |
| |
• |
If you start using APIDRA by
pump infusion, you may need to adjust your insulin doses. Check with your healthcare provider. |
| |
• |
You must use insulin from
a new vial of APIDRA if unexplained hyperglycemia happens, or if pump alarms do not respond
to all of the following: |
| |
|
• |
a repeat dose (injection or
bolus) of APIDRA |
| |
|
• |
a change in the infusion set,
including the reservoir with APIDRA |
| |
|
• |
a change in the infusion site. |
| |
|
If these actions do not work,
you may need to restart your injections with syringes and you must call your healthcare
provider. Continue to check your blood sugar often. |
| |
The infusion set, reservoir
with insulin, and infusion site should be changed: |
| |
• |
every 48 hours or less |
| |
• |
when unexpected
hyperglycemia or ketosis occurs |
| |
• |
when alarms sound, as
specified by your pump manual |
| |
• |
if the insulin has been
exposed to temperatures over 98.6°F (37°C). If the insulin or pump could have absorbed radiant
heat, for example from sunlight, that would heat the insulin to over 98.6°F (37°C). Dark
colored pump cases or sport covers can increase this type of heat. The location where the
pump is worn may affect the temperature. |
| |
• |
Patients who get
skin reactions at the infusion site may need to change infusion sites more often. |
What can affect how
much insulin I need?
Illness. Illness may change how much insulin you need. It is a good idea
to think ahead and make a “sick day” plan with your healthcare
provider in advance so you will be ready when this happens. Be sure to test
your blood sugar more often and call your healthcare provider if you are sick.
Medicines. Many medicines can affect your insulin needs. Other medicines,
including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins and herbal
supplements, can change the way insulin works. You may need a different
dose of insulin when you are taking certain other medicines. Know all the
medicines you take, including prescription and non-prescription medicines,
vitamins and herbal supplements. You may want to keep a list of the medicines
syou take. You can show this list to all your healthcare providers and pharmacists
anytime you get a new medicine or refill. Your healthcare provider will tell
you if your insulin dose needs to be changed.
Meals. The amount of food you eat can affect your insulin needs.
If you eat less food, skip meals, or eat more food than usual, you may
need a different dose of insulin. Talk to your healthcare provider if
you change your diet so that you know how to adjust your APIDRA and
other insulin doses.
Alcohol. Alcohol, including beer and wine, may affect the way
APIDRA works and affect your blood sugar levels. Talk to your healthcare
provider about drinking alcohol.
Exercise or Activity level. Exercise or activity level may change
the way your body uses insulin. Check with your healthcare provider before
you start an exercise program because your dose may need to be changed.
Travel. If you travel across time zones, talk with your healthcare
provider about how to time your injections. When you travel, wear your
medical alert identification. Take extra insulin and supplies with you.
Pregnancy or nursing. The effects of APIDRA on an unborn child
or on a nursing baby are unknown. Therefore, tell your healthcare
provider if you are planning to have a baby, are pregnant, or nursing
a baby. Good control of diabetes is especially important during
pregnancy and nursing.
What are the possible side effects of APIDRA and other insulins?
Insulins, including APIDRA, can cause hypoglycemia (low blood sugar),
hyperglycemia (high blood sugar), allergy, and skin reactions.
Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar):
| |
Hypoglycemia is often called
an “insulin reaction” or “low blood sugar”. It may happen
when you do not have enough sugar in your blood. Common causes of hypoglycemia are
illness, emotional or physical stress, too much insulin, too little food or missed
meals, and too much exercise or activity. |
| |
Early warning signs of
hypoglycemia may be different, less noticeable or not noticeable at all in
some people. That is why it is important to check your blood sugar as you
have been advised by your healthcare provider. |
Hypoglycemia can happen with:
| |
• |
Taking too much insulin.
This can happen when too much insulin is injected. For pump users, it could happen if the pump
dose is too high. |
| |
• |
Not enough carbohydrate (sugar or
starch) intake. This can happen if a meal or snack is missed or delayed. |
| |
• |
Vomiting or diarrhea that
decreases the amount of sugar absorbed by your body. |
| |
• |
Intake of alcohol. |
| |
• |
Medicines that affect insulin.
Be sure to discuss all your medicines with your healthcare provider. Do not start any
new medicines until you know how they may affect your insulin dose. |
| |
• |
Medical conditions that can
affect your blood sugar levels or insulin. These conditions include diseases of
the adrenal glands, the pituitary, the thyroid gland, the liver, and the kidney. |
| |
• |
Too much glucose use by the body.
This can happen if you exercise too much or have a fever. |
| |
• |
Injecting insulin the wrong way
or in the wrong injection area. |
Hypoglycemia can be mild to severe.
Its onset may be rapid. Some patients have few or no warning symptoms, including:
| |
• |
patients with diabetes for a long time |
| |
• |
patients with diabetic neuropathy
(nerve problems) |
| |
• |
patients using certain medicines
for high blood pressure or heart problems. |
Hypoglycemia may reduce your
ability to drive a car or use mechanical equipment and you may risk injury to
yourself or others.
Severe hypoglycemia can be dangerous and can cause temporary or permanent
harm to your heart or brain. It may cause unconsciousness, seizures,
or death.
Symptoms of hypoglycemia may include:
| • |
anxiety, irritability, restlessness,
trouble concentrating, personality changes, mood changes, or other abnormal behavior |
| • |
tingling in your hands, feet,
lips, or tongue |
| • |
dizziness, light-headedness,
or drowsiness |
| • |
nightmares or trouble sleeping |
| • |
headache |
| • |
blurred vision |
| • |
slurred speech |
| • |
palpitations (fast heart beat) |
| • |
sweating |
| • |
tremor (shaking) |
| • |
unsteady gait (walking). |
If you have hypoglycemia often
or it is hard for you to know if you have the symptoms of hypoglycemia, talk to your
healthcare provider.
Mild to moderate hypoglycemia is treated by eating or drinking carbohydrates such as
fruit juice, raisins, sugar candies, milk, or glucose tablets. Talk to your healthcare
provider about the amount of carbohydrates you should eat to treat mild to moderate
hypoglycemia.
Severe hypoglycemia may require the help of another person or emergency medical people.
A person with hypoglycemia who is unable to take foods or liquids with sugar by mouth,
or is unconscious needs medical help fast and will need treatment with a glucagon
injection or glucose given intravenously (IV). Without medical help right away,
serious reactions or even death could happen.
Hyperglycemia (high blood sugar):
| |
Hyperglycemia happens when you
have too much sugar in your blood. Usually, it means there is not enough insulin to
break down the food you eat into energy your body can use. Hyperglycemia can be
caused by a fever, an infection, stress, eating more than you should, taking less
insulin than prescribed, or it can mean your diabetes is getting worse. |
Hyperglycemia can happen with:
| |
• |
Insufficient (too little)
insulin. This can happen from: |
| |
|
– |
injecting too little or no insulin |
| |
|
– |
incorrect storage (freezing, excessive heat) |
| |
|
– |
use after the expiration date. |
| |
For pump users, this can also
be caused when the bolus dose of APIDRA infusion or the basal infusion is set too
low or the pump is delivering too little insulin. |
| |
• |
Too much carbohydrate intake.
This can happen if you eat larger meals, eat more often or increase the amount of carbohydrate
in your meals. |
| |
• |
Medicines that affect insulin.
Be sure to discuss all your medicines with your healthcare provider. Do not start any new medicines
until you know how they may affect your insulin dose. |
| |
• |
Medical conditions that
affect insulin. These medical conditions include fevers, infections, heart attacks, and
stress. |
| |
• |
Injecting insulin the
wrong way or in the wrong injection area. |
Testing your blood or urine
often will let you know if you have hyperglycemia. If your tests are often high,
tell your healthcare provider so your dose of insulin can be changed.
Hyperglycemia can be mild or severe. It can progress to diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA)
or very high glucose levels (hyperosmolar coma) and result in unconsciousness and death.
Although diabetic ketoacidosis occurs most often in patients with type 1 diabetes, it
can also happen in patients with type 2 diabetes who become very sick. Because some
patients get few symptoms of hyperglycemia, it is important to check your blood/urine
sugar and ketones regularly.
Symptoms of hyperglycemia include:
| • |
confusion or drowsiness |
| • |
increased thirst |
| • |
decreased appetite, nausea, or vomiting |
| • |
rapid heart rate |
| • |
increased urination and dehydration
(too little fluid in your body). |
Symptoms of DKA also include:
| • |
fruity smelling breath |
| • |
fast, deep breathing |
| • |
stomach area (abdominal) pain. |
Severe or continuing hyperglycemia
or DKA needs evaluation and treatment right away by your healthcare provider.
Other possible side effects of APIDRA include:
Serious allergic reactions:
Some times severe, life-threatening allergic reactions can happen with insulin.
If you think you are having a severe allergic reaction, get medical help right
away. Signs of insulin allergy include:
| • |
rash all over your body |
| • |
shortness of breath |
| • |
wheezing (trouble breathing) |
| • |
fast pulse |
| • |
sweating |
| • |
low blood pressure. |
Reactions at the injection site:
Injecting insulin can cause the following reactions on the skin at the injection site:
| • |
little depression in the skin (lipoatrophy) |
| • |
skin thickening (lipohypertrophy) |
| • |
red, swelling, itchy skin (injection site reaction). |
You can reduce the chance of
getting an injection site reaction if you change (rotate) the injection site each
time. An injection site reaction should clear up in a few days or a few weeks.
If injection site reactions do not go away or keep happening call your healthcare
provider.
These are not all the side effects of APIDRA. Call your doctor for medical advice
about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-332-1088.
How should I store APIDRA?
Unopened APIDRA:
| |
• |
Do not use APIDRA after the
expiration date stamped on the label. |
| |
• |
Store all unopened APIDRA in a
refrigerator (not the freezer) between 36°F to 46°F (2°C to 8°C).
Do not allow it to freeze. Do not use APIDRA if it has been frozen. |
| |
• |
Keep APIDRA out of direct heat and light. |
| |
• |
Do not use APIDRA if it has been
overheated. |
| |
• |
Do not use APIDRA if it is cloudy,
colored, or if you see particles. |
Opened APIDRA:
Vial:
| |
• |
Store in a refrigerator or below
77°F (25°C) and away from direct heat and light. |
| |
• |
Throw the vial away 28 days
after the first use even if it still contains APIDRA. |
Insulin pump infusion sets:
| |
• |
Change the infusion sets (reservoirs,
tubing, and catheters) and the APIDRA in the reservoir at least every 48 hours. Change all
these parts sooner if they have been exposed to temperatures higher than 98.6°F (37°C). |
| |
• |
Do not use a vial of APIDRA after the
expiration date stamped on the label. |
| |
• |
Do not use APIDRA if it is
colored, cloudy or if you see particles. |
General Information about APIDRA
| • |
Use APIDRA only to treat your diabetes.
Do not give or share APIDRA with another person, even if they have diabetes also.
It may harm them. |
| • |
The active ingredient in APIDRA
is insulin glulisine. The concentration of insulin glulisine is 100 units per
milliliter (mL) or U-100. APIDRA also contains metacresol, tromethamine, sodium
chloride, polysorbate 20, and water for injection. Hydrochloric acid and/or
sodium hydroxide may be added to adjust the pH. |
| • |
This leaflet summarizes the most
important information about APIDRA. If you would like more information, talk with your
healthcare provider. You can ask your healthcare provider for information about APIDRA
that is written for healthcare providers. For more information about APIDRA call
1-800-633-1610 or go to website www.apidra.com. |
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
DIABETES FORECAST is a national magazine designed especially for patients
with diabetes and their families and is available by subscription from the
American Diabetes Association, National Service Center, 1701 N. Beauregard Street,
Alexandria, Virginia 22311, 1-800-DIABETES (1-800-342-2383). You may also
visit the ADA website at www.diabetes.org.
Another publication, COUNTDOWN, is available from the Juvenile Diabetes
Research Foundation International (JDRF), 120 Wall Street, 19th Floor,
New York, New York 10005, 1-800-JDF-CURE (1-800-533-2873). You may also
visit the JDRF website at www.jdrf.org.
To get more information about diabetes, check with your healthcare
provider or diabetes educator or visit www.DiabetesWatch.com.
Rev. August 2008
sanofi-aventis U.S. LLC
Bridgewater NJ 08807
©2008 sanofi-aventis U.S. LLC
‡ The brands listed are the registered trademarks of their respective owners
and are not trademarks of sanofi-aventis U.S. LLC
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