NovoRapid FlexPen 300 IU / 3 mL (Insulin Aspart) – 5 Pen Pack

NovoRapid FlexPen is a pre-filled, disposable insulin pen containing the active ingredient Insulin Aspart. It is a rapid-acting, mealtime insulin used to control high blood sugar in adults and children with diabetes mellitus. This 5-pen pack (each with 300 units) from Novo Nordisk is designed to work quickly to manage blood sugar spikes after eating.

Product Overview: NovoRapid FlexPen (Insulin Aspart)

NovoRapid (Insulin Aspart) is a “bolus” or “mealtime” insulin analog. It is prescribed for both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes to manage the glucose (sugar) that enters the blood from food.

It is designed to be taken just before, or sometimes just after, a meal. It is typically used in conjunction with a long-acting (basal) insulin as part of a complete multiple daily injection (MDI) regimen. The FlexPen is a user-friendly disposable injector with a simple dosing mechanism.

How Does NovoRapid (Insulin Aspart) Work?

Insulin Aspart is a rapid-acting insulin. It works much faster and has a shorter duration of action than regular human insulin. Once injected, it is absorbed quickly into the bloodstream and starts to work within 10 to 20 minutes.

Its primary action is to help the body’s cells absorb glucose from the meal you’ve just eaten and to stop the liver from producing more sugar. Its effect peaks around 1-3 hours and lasts for 3-5 hours, closely mimicking the body’s natural insulin response to a meal.

Key Product Details

Dosage and Administration

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

• Dosing: The dose is highly individual and must be determined by your healthcare provider. It is usually based on your carbohydrate intake (“carb counting”), pre-meal blood sugar levels, and planned physical activity.
• Frequency: It should be injected 5-10 minutes before the start of a meal.
• Needles: Needles are not included with the pen and must be obtained separately. Always use a new needle for each injection.

Important: This is a prescription-only medication. You must follow your doctor’s exact dosing instructions. Never share your NovoRapid FlexPen with another person, even if the needle is changed.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about NovoRapid FlexPen

How fast does NovoRapid work?

NovoRapid is very fast-acting. It typically begins to lower blood sugar within 10 to 20 minutes of injection, which is why it must be taken right before you eat.

What is the difference between NovoRapid (rapid) and a basal insulin (like Levemir or Lantus)?

They have different jobs. NovoRapid (Insulin Aspart) is a mealtime (bolus) insulin taken before eating to cover the sugar from food. Basal insulins (like Levemir or Lantus) are long-acting and work in the background for up to 24 hours to keep blood sugar stable between meals.

How must NovoRapid 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’s not empty.
• Do not freeze insulin.

What happens if I take NovoRapid and forget to eat?

Taking a mealtime insulin like NovoRapid without eating can lead to severe hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), as the insulin will lower your blood sugar without any incoming food to balance it. Always coordinate your injection with your meal.

Important Safety Information

Warning: Hypoglycemia (Low Blood Sugar)

• Hypoglycemia is the most common and serious side effect of all insulins, especially rapid-acting ones.
• Severe hypoglycemia can cause seizures, unconsciousness, and may be life-threatening.
• You must monitor your blood sugar regularly and know how to treat low blood sugar immediately (e.g., with fast-acting carbohydrates like juice or glucose tablets).

Do not use NovoRapid if:

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

Before starting NovoRapid, tell your doctor about all your medical conditions, including any liver or kidney problems. Your insulin dose may need to be adjusted if you change your diet, level of physical activity, or if you are ill.

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.