Humalog Mix50 KwikPens (100 Units/mL)

Humalog Mix50 KwikPens delivers 1-60 units in increments of 1 unit.

Humalog Mix50 KwikPens are disposable pre-filled pen that contains insulin lispro. Its formulation is slightly modified by one molecule. Humalog Mix50 contains 50% insulin lispro and is dissolved in water, available in a premixed suspension with protamine sulfate to prolong the effects. It works faster than insulin produced by the body due to its formulation. They pen can be refilled with the correct cartridge for on-going usage.

Diabetes is caused by the lack of insulin produced by the pancreas. Insulin is needed in the body to manage blood sugar levels. Humalog Mix50 is an adequate substitute for your body’s insulin. It works longer and quicker than soluble insulin.

Humalog Mix50 KwikPens contains 3 ml (300 units, 100 units/ml) of insulin lispro. A single KwikPen contains multiple doses, which can be adjusted by using the dial. The number of units is displayed in a dose window and administered 1 unit at a time. Patients can administer 1-60 units in a single injection. If more than 60 units are required, you will need to give yourself more than one injection.

Warnings and Precautions

Hypoglycemia or low blood sugar is the most common adverse effect experienced by insulin users. Blood glucose monitoring is recommended for all patients with diabetes. Uncorrected hypoglycemic or hyperglycemic reactions can cause loss of consciousness, coma, or even death.

Humalog Mix50 KwikPens should be given within 15 minutes before a meal.

Humalog Mix50 KwikPens are white suspension and should be administered by subcutaneous injection only. Humalog Mix50 must not be administered intravenously.

Any change of insulin regimen should be made cautiously and only under medical supervision. Changes in purity, strength, brand (manufacturer), type (regular, NPH, etc.), species (beef, pork, beef-pork, human), and method of manufacture (recombinant DNA versus animal-source insulin) may result in the need for a change in dosage.

Mixing Humalog Mix50 with either animal insulins or insulin preparations produced by other manufacturers is not recommended.

Patients taking Humalog Mix50 may require a change in dosage from that used with other insulins. If an adjustment is needed, it may occur with the first dose or over several weeks.

Usage

Your health care provider may recommend Humalog Mix50 KwikPens in combination with longer-acting insulin (such as Fiasp). Before using insulin, you should review the leaflet included with the medication and follow your pharmacists or doctors’ directions which may be individualized for your specific needs.

Monitor your blood sugar levels often by using a glucose testing kit.

You should generally use Humalog Mix50 within 15 minutes of a meal.

Even though your insulin therapy well manages your blood sugar levels, you may not detect warning signs of blood sugar levels dropping too low.

Carefully schedule your meals, how often you work out, and how hard you work out.

Do not share pens as they can lead to disease transmission; only use the pen prescribed to you.

Humalog Mix50 should be taken 15 minutes before every meal or within 15 minutes of starting your meal; however, your doctor may have other directions to follow.

Humalog Mix50 KwikPens should be injected under the skin (subcutaneously). Your doctor, pharmacist, or nurse should demonstrate how to inject.

Inspect pen before use. It should not be used if it appears to have particles or clumps of material floating around.

You may need to modify your insulin dosage if you are taking any of the following medications: contraceptives, steroids, thyroid hormone replacement therapy, oral hypoglycemics, acetylsalicylic acid, octreotide, sulpha antibiotics, beta2 stimulants or beta-blockers, some antidepressants, some angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors and angiotensin II receptor blockers and danazol.

Side Effects

Side effects are unwanted responses. Like any medication, there may be side effects; however, others may experience them differently or not at all. The following side effects associated with the Humalog Mix50 KwikPen have been experienced by 1% of patients taking this medication. Although these side effects may be rare, they can lead to more severe problems if not appropriately managed.

System allergies are rare but can occur. Symptoms may include: rashes all over the body, difficulty breathing/wheezing, sudden drop in blood pressure, increased heartbeat, sweating, confusion, anxiety, dizziness, slurred speech/difficulty speaking, drowsiness, difficulty concentrating, nausea, headache, hunger, nervousness, trembling and numbness in fingers, tongue or lips.

If you experience severe allergic reactions such as swelling of the face or throat, difficulty breathing/wheezing, painful skin rashes, or unconsciousness, seek medical attention.

Many of the side effects can be managed and go away with time.

If you are concerned about any of the listed side effects or experience any of them, speak with your doctor. Your pharmacist may provide additional instructions to manage side effects better.