Description
NovoMix 50 is a biphasic insulin analogue containing 50% soluble insulin aspart and 50% insulin aspart protamine crystals. It is used to control high blood sugar levels in patients with type 1 and type 2 diabetes mellitus. The insulin provides both rapid-acting and intermediate-acting effects, helping to manage blood glucose after meals and throughout the day.
Each FlexPen contains 3ml (100IU/ml) of prefilled insulin, making administration more convenient and accurate for diabetic patients.
Ingredients
-
Active Ingredient: Insulin Aspart (100 IU/ml, biphasic formulation – 50% soluble, 50% protamine-crystallized)
-
Inactive Ingredients: Glycerol, phenol, metacresol, zinc chloride, hydrochloric acid/sodium hydroxide (pH adjustment), water for injection
Drug Class
Antidiabetic (Insulin analogue, biphasic formulation)
Dosage Form
Prefilled FlexPen injection – 3ml each (Pack of 5 pens)
Uses
-
Treatment of Type 1 diabetes mellitus
-
Treatment of Type 2 diabetes mellitus when oral medications are not enough
-
Helps control post-meal blood sugar spikes
-
Maintains stable glucose control throughout the day
Dosage
-
Individualized dose as prescribed by doctor
-
Typically injected immediately before meals
-
Dose depends on blood glucose levels, diet, physical activity, and overall health
-
Must not be used without medical supervision
In Case of Overdose
-
Symptoms: Sweating, shakiness, dizziness, headache, confusion, rapid heartbeat, fainting, seizures
-
Management: Immediate intake of fast-acting sugar (glucose tablets, juice, or candy). Severe cases may require glucagon injection or hospitalization.
Missed Dose
-
Take the missed dose as soon as remembered, but do not double dose
-
Monitor blood glucose closely if a dose is missed
How to Use
-
Inject subcutaneously (under the skin), usually in the thigh, upper arm, or abdomen
-
Rotate injection sites to prevent lipodystrophy (fat tissue changes)
-
Do not inject into a vein or muscle unless instructed
-
Use FlexPen as instructed by healthcare provider
-
Never share your insulin pen with others
When Not to Use
-
Allergy to insulin aspart or any ingredients in the formulation
-
During hypoglycemia (low blood sugar attack)
-
Without doctor’s prescription and supervision
Side Effects
-
Common: Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), redness, swelling, or itching at injection site
-
Moderate: Weight gain, mild swelling, headache, dizziness
-
Serious: Severe hypoglycemia, blurred vision, difficulty breathing, severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis), lipodystrophy at injection site
Precautions & Warnings
-
Monitor blood glucose regularly
-
Use with caution in patients with liver or kidney disease
-
Inform doctor if pregnant or breastfeeding – dosage adjustments may be required
-
Avoid alcohol (increases risk of hypoglycemia)
-
Do not stop insulin suddenly without medical advice
Drug Interactions
-
Oral antidiabetic drugs (e.g., metformin, sulfonylureas)
-
Beta-blockers (mask symptoms of hypoglycemia)
-
Corticosteroids, oral contraceptives, and thyroid medications (may alter insulin effect)
-
Diuretics and ACE inhibitors (may affect blood glucose levels)
Storage/Disposal
-
Store unopened pens in refrigerator (2°C–8°C) – do not freeze
-
Once opened, can be kept at room temperature (below 30°C) for up to 4 weeks
-
Keep away from direct light and heat
-
Dispose of used pens in a sharps container
Control Drug
Yes – NovoMix 50 is a prescription-only medicine and must be used under a doctor’s supervision.
Quick Tips
-
Always check the insulin label before injection to avoid mix-ups
-
Eat meals regularly to prevent hypoglycemia
-
Keep a source of fast-acting sugar with you at all times
-
Never stop or switch insulin type without consulting your doctor
-
Regular exercise and a balanced diet enhance insulin effectiveness
