Apidra Dosage/Direction for Use

Dose: Always use this medicine exactly as the doctor has instructed. Check with the doctor or pharmacist if not sure.
Based on the life-style and the results of the blood sugar (glucose) tests and the previous insulin usage, the doctor will determine how much Apidra will be needed.
Apidra is a short-acting insulin. The doctor may instruct to use it in combination with an intermediate, long-acting insulin, a basal insulin or with tablets used to treat high blood sugar levels.
When switching from another insulin to insulin glulisine, the doctor may have to adjust the dosage.
Many factors may influence the blood sugar level. These factors should be known so that the patient can react correctly to changes in the blood sugar level and to prevent it from becoming too high or too low.
Method of administration: Apidra is injected under the skin (subcutaneously).
The doctor will show which area of the skin Apidra should be injected. Apidra can be injected in the abdominal wall, the thigh or upper arm or by continuous infusion in the abdominal wall. The effect will be slightly quicker if the insulin is injected into the abdomen. As for all insulins, injection sites and infusion sites within an injection area (abdomen, thigh or upper arm) must be rotated from one injection to the next.
Frequency of administration: Apidra should be taken shortly (0-15 minutes) before or soon after meals.
Instructions for proper use: How to handle SoloStar: SoloStar is a pre-filled disposable pen containing insulin glulisine. Apidra in a pre-filled pen is only suitable for injecting just under the skin. Speak to the doctor if insulin needs to be injected by another method.
Read carefully the Instructions for use under Patient Counselling Information. The pen must be used as described in these Instructions for use.
To prevent the possible transmission of disease, each pen must be used by one patient only.
Before use always attach a new needle, and perform a safety test. Only use needles that are compatible for use with SoloStar (see Instructions for use under Patient Counselling Information).
Look at the cartridge sealed in the disposable pen injector before using it. Only use it if the solution is clear, colourless and has no visible particles in it. Do not shake or mix it before use.
Always use a new pen if the blood sugar control is unexpectedly getting worse. For any problem with SoloStar, please consult the Health Care Professional.
If the patient forgets to use Apidra: If the patient missed a dose of Apidra or has not injected enough insulin, the blood sugar level may become too high (hyperglycaemia). Check the blood sugar frequently.
Do not take a double dose to make up for a forgotten dose.
If the patient stops using Apidra: This could lead to severe hyperglycaemia (very high blood sugar) and ketoacidosis (build-up of acid in the blood because the body is breaking down fat instead of sugar). Do not stop Apidra without speaking to a doctor, who will instruct what needs to be done.
For any further questions on the use of this medicine, ask the doctor, pharmacist or nurse.
Insulin mix-ups: Always check the insulin label before each injection to avoid mix-ups between Apidra and other insulins.