Fiasp FlexTouch 100 IU/ml Pre-filled Pen

Fiasp FlexTouch 100 IU/ml Pre-filled Pen

Fiasp FlexTouch is a faster-acting mealtime insulin aspart from Novo Nordisk, supplied in a 3 ml disposable pre-filled pen containing 300 units. It is the same insulin aspart molecule found in conventional rapid-acting insulin, but reformulated with nicotinamide (vitamin B3) and L-arginine so that absorption from the injection site begins sooner. This earlier onset more closely matches the natural insulin rise that follows eating, which helps blunt the post-meal glucose spike in adults and children with type 1 or type 2 diabetes mellitus. The FlexTouch pen has a spring-loaded, push-button mechanism that needs no extra force at higher doses, making dialling and delivering an accurate dose straightforward.

Key Features

• Faster-acting insulin aspart – absorption begins earlier than conventional mealtime insulin.
• Can be taken at the start of a meal, or within 20 minutes of starting to eat.
• Disposable FlexTouch pen holding 300 units in 3 ml (100 U/ml), dialled in 1-unit steps.
• Push-button release needs no extra force at large doses.
• Clear, colourless solution – no resuspension or mixing required before injecting.
• Manufactured by Novo Nordisk A/S, Denmark.

Composition

• One pre-filled pen contains 300 units of insulin aspart in 3 ml solution
• 1 ml contains 100 units of insulin aspart (equivalent to 3.5 mg)
• Nicotinamide (vitamin B3) 20.76 mg and arginine as L-arginine HCl 3.48 mg
• Phenol 1.50 mg and metacresol 1.72 mg as preservatives
• Glycerol, zinc acetate, disodium phosphate dihydrate and water for injections q.s.

Uses

• Mealtime (bolus) blood glucose control in type 1 diabetes mellitus.
• Mealtime blood glucose control in type 2 diabetes mellitus alongside basal insulin or oral medicines.
• Basal-bolus regimens where a rapid post-meal response is needed.

How to Use

• Use only as prescribed. Your doctor sets the dose based on your blood glucose readings and meals.
• Check that the solution is clear and colourless before every injection. Do not use it if it looks cloudy or has particles.
• Attach a new NovoTwist, NovoFine or NovoFine Plus needle (up to 8 mm) for each dose. Needles are not supplied with the pen.
• Inject subcutaneously into the abdomen, upper arm or thigh, rotating the site each time.
• Take the dose at the start of the meal, or within 20 minutes of starting to eat.
• Discard the needle after each injection and keep the cap on the pen. A pen is for single-patient use only.

Precautions

• Schedule H and Schedule G prescription drug. Not to be sold by retail without the prescription of a Registered Medical Practitioner. It is dangerous to take this preparation except under medical supervision.
• Because it acts sooner than older mealtime insulins, hypoglycaemia can occur earlier after the injection – always keep a fast source of sugar to hand.
• Do not inject if a meal is delayed or skipped without checking with your doctor.
• Kidney or liver disease, illness, alcohol and changes in exercise can all alter your insulin requirement.
• Never switch insulin brand, type or strength without medical advice.
• Take care when driving or using machinery if your glucose control is unstable.

Side Effects

• Hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar) – the most common effect
• Injection site reactions such as redness, swelling or itching
• Lipodystrophy if injection sites are not rotated
• Weight gain
• Rash, itching or allergic reactions

Storage

• Before opening: store in a refrigerator between 2°C and 8°C. Do not freeze.
• During use: keep refrigerated (2°C–8°C) or below 30°C, and use within 4 weeks.
• Keep the cap on the pen to protect it from light, and keep out of the sight and reach of children.

Legal Disclaimer: Fiasp FlexTouch is a prescription-only medicine. This information is for educational purposes and does not replace the advice of a qualified doctor or pharmacist. Always follow the dose and regimen prescribed for you, and consult your physician before making any change to your insulin therapy.