Apidra SoloStar 300 IU / 3 mL (Insulin Glulisine) – 5 Pen Pack

Apidra SoloStar is a pre-filled, disposable insulin pen containing the active ingredient Insulin Glulisine. It is a rapid-acting, mealtime insulin used to manage high blood sugar in adults and children with diabetes mellitus. This 5-pen pack (each with 300 units) from Sanofi is designed to work very quickly to manage blood sugar increases from eating.

Product Overview: Apidra SoloStar (Insulin Glulisine)

Apidra SoloStar (Insulin Glulisine) is a “bolus” or “mealtime” insulin. It is prescribed for both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes to control the blood sugar (glucose) spike that happens after eating a meal.

It is designed to be taken at mealtimes and is typically used in combination with a long-acting (basal) insulin as part of a complete diabetes management plan. The Apidra SoloStar pen is a user-friendly disposable injector, known for its accuracy and ease of use.

How Does Apidra (Insulin Glulisine) Work?

Insulin Glulisine is a rapid-acting insulin analog. It works faster and has a more rapid onset than regular human insulin. Once injected, it gets into the bloodstream quickly and starts to work within 15 minutes.

Its primary job is to help your body’s cells use the sugar from the food you’ve eaten, preventing it from building up in your blood. Its effect peaks in about 1 hour and lasts for 2 to 4 hours, which is designed to closely match your body’s needs during and right after a meal.

Key Product Details

Dosage and Administration

Apidra is administered as a subcutaneous injection (an injection under the skin), usually in the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm.

• Dosing: The dose is highly individual and must be determined by your doctor. It is based on your carbohydrate intake, pre-meal blood sugar levels, and anticipated physical activity.
• Frequency: It should be injected within 15 minutes before or 20 minutes after starting a meal.
• Needles: Needles are not included with the pen and must be purchased separately. Always use a new, sterile needle for each injection.

Important: This is a prescription-only medication. You must follow your doctor’s exact dosing instructions. Never share your Apidra SoloStar pen with another person, as this can transmit serious infections.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Apidra SoloStar

How fast does Apidra work?

Apidra SoloStar is one of the fastest-acting insulins. It begins to lower blood sugar within 15 minutes of injection, giving it the flexibility to be taken just before or even shortly after you start eating.

What is the difference between Apidra (Glulisine) and NovoRapid (Aspart)?

Both Apidra (Insulin Glulisine) and NovoRapid (Insulin Aspart) are rapid-acting mealtime insulins. They work in a very similar way and at a similar speed to control post-meal blood sugar. Your doctor will choose the one that best fits your body’s response and lifestyle. They are not directly interchangeable without medical advice.

How must Apidra SoloStar be stored?

• Unopened Pens: Must be stored in a refrigerator (between 2°C and 8°C or 36°F and 46°F).
• In-Use Pens: The pen you are currently using should be kept at room temperature (below 30°C or 86°F) and must be discarded after 28 days (4 weeks), even if it still contains insulin.
• Do not freeze insulin.

What happens if I take Apidra and forget to eat?

Taking a mealtime insulin like Apidra without eating can cause severe hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). This is a serious risk because the insulin will lower your blood sugar without any incoming food to balance it.

Important Safety Information

Warning: Hypoglycemia (Low Blood Sugar)

• Hypoglycemia is the most common and serious side effect of all insulins, including Apidra.
• Severe hypoglycemia can cause seizures, unconsciousness, and may be life-threatening.
• You must monitor your blood sugar regularly and always be prepared to treat low blood sugar as instructed by your doctor (e.g., with glucose tablets or juice).

Do not use Apidra if:

• You are having an episode of hypoglycemia.
• You are allergic to Insulin Glulisine or any of the other ingredients.

Before starting Apidra, tell your doctor about all your medical conditions, including any liver or kidney problems, as your insulin dose may need to be adjusted.

Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only. Insulin is a critical prescription medication. This information is not a substitute for professional medical advice from your endocrinologist or healthcare provider.