Pharmacy Guide

Patient leaflets and SmPCs, drug interaction checker, official dosages and NHS pharmacy opening hours — all in one place.

Pharmacy Guide

Patient leaflets and SmPCs, drug interaction checker, official dosages and NHS pharmacy opening hours — all in one place.

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Admelog 100 units/ml solution for injection in pre filled pen

⚠ This medicine appears to have been discontinued

The electronic medicines compendium (emc) no longer publishes a Summary of Product Characteristics for this product, which usually means it is no longer marketed in the UK. The patient leaflet below is kept for reference, but the product may not be available.

If you were prescribed this medicine, other products containing Insulin lispro may still be available. Do not stop your treatment — ask your pharmacist or GP what to use instead.

Active substance: Insulin lispro

Source: electronic medicines compendium (emc)
Official leaflet: Read the PIL on emc

What it is and what it is used for

for Admelog is used to treat diabetes. It works more quickly than normal human insulin because the insulin molecule has been changed slightly. You get diabetes if your pancreas does not make enough insulin to control the level of glucose in your blood. Admelog is a substitute for your own insulin and is used to control glucose in the long term. It works very quickly and lasts a shorter time than soluble insulin (2 to 5 hours). You should normally use Admelog within 15 minutes of a meal. Your doctor may tell you to use Admelog as well as a longer-acting insulin. Each kind of insulin comes with another patient information leaflet to tell you about it. Do not change your insulin unless your doctor tells you to. Be very careful if you do change insulin. Admelog is suitable for use in adults and children. Admelog SoloStar is a disposable pre-filled pen containing 3 ml (300 units, 100 units/ml) of insulin lispro. One Admelog pre-filled pen contains multiple doses of insulin. The Admelog pre-filled pen dials 1 unit at a time. The number of units are displayed in the dose window, always check this before your injection. You can give from 1 to 80 units in a single injection. If your dose is more than 80 units, you will need to give yourself more than one injection.

What you need to know before you take it

e Admelog Do not use Admelog

  • if you think hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar) is starting. Further in this leaflet it tells you how to deal with mild hypoglycaemia (see section 3: If you use more Admelog than you need).
  • if you are allergic to insulin lispro or to any of the other ingredients of this medicine (listed in section 6). Warnings and precautions Admelog in pre-filled pen is only suitable for injecting just under the skin (see also section 3). Speak to your doctor if you need to inject your insulin by another method. Record the brand name ("Admelog") and Lot number (included on the outer cartons and labels of each pre-filled pen) of the product you are using and provide this information when reporting any side effects.

Skin changes at the injection site The injection site should be rotated to prevent skin changes such as lumps under the skin. The insulin may not work very well if you inject into a lumpy area (see "How to use Admelog"). Contact your doctor if you are currently injecting into a lumpy area before you start injecting in a different area. Your doctor may tell you to check your blood sugar more closely, and to adjust your insulin or your other antidiabetic medications dose. Talk to your doctor, pharmacist or nurse before using Admelog:

  • If your blood sugar levels are well controlled by your current insulin therapy, you may not feel the warning symptoms when your blood sugar is falling too low. Warning signs are listed later in this leaflet. You must think carefully about when to have your meals, how often to exercise and how much to do. You must also keep a close watch on your blood sugar levels by testing your blood glucose often.
  • A few people who have had hypoglycaemia after switching from animal insulin to human insulin have reported that the early warning symptoms were less obvious or different. If you often have hypoglycaemia or have difficulty recognising it, please discuss this with your doctor.
  • If you answer YES to any of the following questions, tell your doctor, pharmacist or diabetes nurse
  • Have you recently become ill?
  • Do you have trouble with your kidneys or liver?
  • Are you exercising more than usual?
  • You should also tell your doctor, pharmacist or diabetes nurse if you are planning to go abroad. The time difference between countries may mean that you have to have your injections and meals at different times from when you are at home.
  • Some patients with long-standing type 2 diabetes mellitus and heart disease or previous stroke who were treated with pioglitazone and insulin experienced the development of heart failure. Inform your doctor as soon as possible, if you experience signs of heart failure such as unusual shortness of breath or rapid increase in weight or localised swelling (oedema).
  • This pen is not recommended for use by the blind or visually impaired without the help of someone trained to use the pen. Other medicines and Admelog Your insulin needs may change if you are taking
  • the contraceptive pill,
  • steroids,
  • thyroid hormone replacement therapy,
  • oral hypoglycaemics,
  • acetyl salicylic acid,
  • sulpha antibiotics,
  • octreotide,
  • "beta2 stimulants" (for example ritodrine, salbutamol or terbutaline),
  • beta-blockers, or
  • some antidepressants (monoamine oxidase inhibitors or selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors),
  • danazol,
  • some angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors (for example captopril, enalapril), and
  • angiotensin II receptor blockers. Tell your doctor if you are taking, have recently taken or might take any other medicines (see also section "Warnings and precautions"). Admelog with alcohol Your blood sugar levels may change if you drink alcohol. Therefore the amount of insulin needed may change. Pregnancy and breast-feeding If you are pregnant or breast-feeding, think you may be pregnant or are planning to have a baby, ask your doctor for advice before taking this medicine. The amount of insulin you need usually falls during the first three months of pregnancy and increases for the remaining six months. If you are breast-feeding, you may need to alter your insulin intake or diet. Driving and using machines Your ability to concentrate and react may be reduced if you have hypoglycaemia. Please keep this possible problem in mind in all situations where you might put yourself and others at risk (e.g. driving a car or using machines).

You should contact your doctor about the advisability of driving if you have:

  • frequent episodes of hypoglycaemia
  • reduced or absent warning signs of hypoglycaemia Admelog contains sodium This medicine contains less than 1 mmol (23 mg) sodium per dose, that is to say essentially "sodium-free".

How to take it

Admelog Always check the pack and the label of the pre-filled pen for the name and type of the insulin when you get it from your pharmacy. Make sure you get the Admelog that your doctor has told you to use. Always use this medicine exactly as your doctor has told you. Check with your doctor if you are not sure. To prevent the possible transmission of disease, each pen must be used by you only, even if the needle is changed. Dose

  • You should normally inject Admelog within 15 minutes of a meal. If you need to, you can inject soon after a meal. But your doctor will have told you exactly how much to use, when to use it, and how often. These instructions are only for you. Follow them exactly and visit your diabetes clinic regularly.
  • If you change the type of insulin you use (for example from a human or animal insulin to an Admelog product), you may have to use more or less than before. This might just be for the first injection or it may be a gradual change over several weeks or months.
  • Inject Admelog under the skin (subcutaneous use or "SC"). You should only inject it into a muscle if your doctor has told you to. Preparing Admelog
  • Admelog is already dissolved in water, so you do not need to mix it. But you must use it only if it looks like water. It must be clear, have no colour and no solid pieces in it. Check each time you inject yourself. Getting the SoloStar pre-filled pen ready to use (Please see user manual)
  • Admelog in pre-filled pen is only suitable for injecting just under the skin. Speak to your doctor if you need to inject your insulin by another method.
  • First wash your hands.
  • Read the instructions on how to use your prefilled insulin pen. Please follow the instructions carefully. Here are some reminders.
  • Use a clean needle (needles are not included).
  • Always perform a safety test before each injection. Injecting Admelog
  • Before you make an injection, clean your skin as you have been instructed. Inject under the skin, as you were taught. Do not inject directly into a vein. After your injection, leave the needle in the skin for ten seconds to make sure you have injected the whole dose. Do not rub the area you have just injected. Make sure you inject at least half an inch (1 cm) from the last injection and that you 'rotate' the places you inject, as you have been taught. It doesn't matter which injection site you use, either upper arm, thigh, buttock or abdomen, your Admelog injection will still work quicker than soluble human insulin.
  • You must not administer Admelog by the intravenous route (IV). Inject Admelog as your physician or nurse has taught you. Only your physician can administer Admelog by the intravenous route. He will only do this under special circumstances such as surgery or if you are ill and your glucose levels are too high. After injecting
  • As soon as you have done the injection, unscrew the needle from the pre-filled pen using the outer needle cap. Do not share your needles. Do not share your pen. Replace the cap on your pen. Further injections
  • Every time you use a pre-filled pen you must use a new needle. Always perform a safety test before each injection. You can see roughly how many units of insulin are left by looking at where the plunger is on the insulin scale.
  • Do not mix any other insulin in your pre-filled pen. Once the pre-filled pen is empty, do not use it again. Please get rid of it carefully – your pharmacist or diabetes nurse will tell you how to do this.

If you use more Admelog than you should If you use more Admelog than you need or are unsure how much you have injected, a low blood sugar may occur. Check your blood sugar. If your blood sugar is low (mild hypoglycaemia), eat glucose tablets, sugar or drink a sugary drink. Then eat fruit, biscuits, or a sandwich, as your doctor has advised you and have some rest. This will often get you over mild hypoglycaemia or a minor insulin overdose. If you get worse and your breathing is shallow and your skin gets pale, tell your doctor at once. A glucagon injection can treat quite severe hypoglycaemia. Eat glucose or sugar after the glucagon injection. If you do not respond to glucagon, you will have to go to hospital. Ask your doctor to tell you about glucagon. If you forget to use Admelog If you use less Admelog than you need or are unsure how much you have injected, a high blood sugar may occur. Check your blood sugar. If hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar) or hyperglycaemia (high blood sugar) is not treated, they can be very serious and cause headaches, feeling sick (nausea), being sick (vomiting), loss of fluids (dehydration), unconsciousness, coma or even death (see "Hypoglycaemia" and "Hyperglycaemia and diabetic ketoacidosis" in section 4 "Possible Side Effects"). Three simple steps to avoid hypoglycaemia or hyperglycaemia are:

  • Always keep spare syringes and a spare vial of Admelog, or a spare pen and cartridges, in case you lose your SoloStar pre-filled pen or it gets damaged.
  • Always carry something to show you are diabetic.
  • Always carry sugar with you. If you stop using Admelog If you use less Admelog than you need, a high blood sugar may occur. Do not change your insulin unless your doctor tells you to. If you have any further questions on the use of this medicine, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

Possible side effects

Like all medicines, this medicine can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them. Systemic allergy is rare (may affect up to 1 in 1,000 people). The symptoms are as follows:

  • rash over the whole
  • blood pressure body dropping
  • difficulty in breathing • heart beating fast
  • wheezing
  • sweating If you think you are having this sort of insulin allergy with Admelog, tell your doctor at once. Local allergy is common (may affect up to 1 in 10 people). Some people get redness, swelling or itching around the area of the insulin injection. This usually clears up in anything from a few days to a few weeks. If this happens to you, tell your doctor. Skin changes at the injection site Lipodystrophy is uncommon (it may affect up to 1 in 100 people). If you inject insulin too often at the same place, the fatty tissue may either shrink (lipoatrophy) or thicken (lipohypertrophy). Lumps under the skin may also be caused by build-up of a protein called amyloid (cutaneous amyloidosis; how often this occurs is not known). The insulin may not work very well if you inject into a lumpy area. Change the injection site with each injection to help prevent these skin changes. Oedema (e.g. swelling in arms, ankles; fluid retention) has been reported, particularly at the start of insulin therapy or during a change in therapy to improve control of your blood glucose. Reporting of side effects If you get any side effects, talk to your doctor or pharmacist. This includes any possible side effects not listed in this leaflet. You can also report side effects directly via the Yellow Card Scheme at: www.mhra.gov.uk/yellowcard or search for MHRA Yellow Card in the Google Play or Apple App Store. By reporting side effects you can help provide more information on the safety of this medicine.

Common problems of diabetes A. Hypoglycaemia Hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar) means there is not enough sugar in the blood. This can be caused if:

  • you inject too much Admelog or other insulin;
  • you miss or delay meals or change your diet;
  • you exercise or work too hard just before or after a meal;
  • you have an infection or illness (especially diarrhoea or vomiting);
  • there is a change in your need for insulin; or
  • you have trouble with your kidneys or liver which gets worse. Alcohol and some medicines can affect your blood sugar levels (see section 2). The first symptoms of low blood sugar usually come on quickly and include the following:
  • tiredness
  • rapid
  • nervousness or heartbeat
  • feeling sick shakiness
  • headache
  • cold sweat While you are not confident about recognising your warning symptoms, avoid situations, e.g. driving a car, in which you or others would be put at risk by hypoglycaemia. B. Hyperglycaemia and diabetic ketoacidosis Hyperglycaemia (too much sugar in the blood) means that your body does not have enough insulin. Hyperglycaemia can be brought about by:
  • not using your Admelog or other insulin;
  • using less insulin than your doctor tells you to;
  • eating a lot more than your diet allows; or
  • fever, infection or emotional stress. Hyperglycaemia can lead to diabetic ketoacidosis. The first symptoms come on slowly over many hours or days. The symptoms include the following:
  • feeling sleepy
  • fruity smell on
  • flushed face the breath
  • thirst
  • feeling or being
  • no appetite sick Severe symptoms are heavy breathing and a rapid pulse. Get medical help immediately. C. Illness If you are ill, especially if you feel sick or are sick, the amount of insulin you need may change. Even when you are not eating normally, you still need insulin. Test your urine or blood, follow your 'sick rules', and tell your doctor.

How to store it

Admelog Keep out of the sight and reach of children. Do not use Admelog in pre-filled pen after the expiry date which is stated on the label and the carton. The expiry date refers to the last day of that month. Before the first use store your pre-filled pen in a refrigerator (2 °C – 8 °C). Do not freeze. Keep the pre-filled pen in the outer carton in order to protect from light. Keep your Admelog pre-filled pen in use at room temperature (below 30 °C) and dispose of after 4 weeks. Do not keep the pre-filled pen that you are using in the fridge. The pre-filled pen should not be stored with the needle attached. Always keep the cap on the pre-filled pen when you are not using it in order to protect from light. Do not use Admelog pre-filled pen if the solution is coloured or it has solid pieces in it. You must use it only if it looks like water. Check this each time you inject yourself. Do not throw away any medicines via wastewater or household waste. Ask your pharmacist how to throw away medicines you no longer use. These measures will help to protect the environment.

Contents of the pack and other information

What Admelog contains

  • The active substance is insulin lispro. Each ml of the solution contains 100 units (equivalent to 3.5 mg) of insulin lispro. Each pre-filled pen contains 3 ml of solution for injection, equivalent to 300 units.
  • The other ingredients are: metacresol, glycerol, disodium hydrogen phosphate heptahydrate, zinc oxide and water for injection. Sodium hydroxide or hydrochloric acid may have been used to adjust the acidity (see section 2 "Admelog contains sodium"). What Admelog looks like and contents of the pack Admelog, solution for injection is a clear, colourless, aqueous solution. Each pre-filled pen contains 3 ml. The Admelog in pre-filled pen (SoloStar) comes in a pack of 1, 3, 5 or 10 pre-filled pens. Not all pack sizes may be marketed. The Admelog in your pre-filled pen is the same as the Admelog, which comes in separate Admelog cartridges. The pre-filled pen simply has a built-in cartridge. When the pre-filled pen is empty you cannot use it again. Marketing Authorisation Holder Sanofi, 410 Thames Valley Park Drive, Reading, Berkshire, RG6 1PT, UK Tel: 0800 035 2525 Email: [email protected] Manufacturer Sanofi-Aventis Deutschland GmbH, D-65926 Frankfurt am Main, Germany. This leaflet does not contain all the information about your medicine. If you have any questions or are not sure about anything, ask your doctor or pharmacist This leaflet was last revised in February 2022

Admelog solution for injection in pre-filled pen (SoloStar) INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE Need help?

Important information

this first

Never share your pen – it is only for you. Never use your pen if it is damaged or if you are not sure that it is working properly. Always perform a safety test. Always carry a spare pen and spare needles in case they got lost or stop working. Never re-use needles. If you do you might not get your dose (underdosing) or get too much (overdosing) as the needle could block.

Talk with your doctor, pharmacist or nurse about how to inject, before using your pen. Ask for help if you have problems handling the pen, for example if you have problems with your sight. This pen is not recommended for use by the blind or visually impaired without the help of someone trained to use the pen. Read all of these instructions before using your pen. If you do not follow all of these instructions, you may get too much or too little insulin.

If you have any questions about your pen or about diabetes, ask your doctor, pharmacist or nurse or call the Sanofi number on the front of this leaflet.

a new sterile needle (see STEP 2). a puncture resistant container for used needles and pens (see Throwing your pen away).

holder

window

pointer

selector Pen cap

Rubber seal

scale

Plunger*

Injection button

  • You will not see the plunger until you have injected a few doses.

How to care for your pen Handle your pen with care

  • Do not drop your pen or knock it against hard surfaces.
  • If you think that your pen may be damaged, do not try to repair it, use a new one.

Take a new pen out of the fridge at least 1 hour before you inject. Cold insulin is more painful to inject.

Protect your pen from dust and dirt

  • You can clean the outside of your pen by wiping it with a damp cloth (water only). Do not soak, wash or lubricate your pen – this may damage it.

Always use a new sterile needle for each injection. This helps stop blocked needles, contamination and infection. Only use needles that are compatible for use with Admelog.

  • For further information on the storage and use of your pen, please refer to sections 2 and 5 of the package leaflet.

Always do a safety test before each injection – this is to: check your pen and the needle are working properly. make sure that you get the correct insulin dose.

Remove the needle before throwing your pen away. Throw away your used pen as told by your pharmacist or local authority.

Never select a dose or press the injection button without a needle attached. This may damage your pen.

If you find it hard to press the injection button in, do not force it as this may break your pen. See the section below for help.

dose pointer is at the 2 mark.

pen. Make sure you have the correct insulin. This is especially important if you have other injector pens. Never use your pen after the expiry date.

Upper arms Stomach

until fixed. Do not overtighten.

When insulin comes out of the needle tip, your pen is working correctly.

Do not use the pen if the insulin looks cloudy, coloured or contains particles.

with your dose. If you turn past your dose, you can turn back down. If there are not enough units left in your pen for your dose, the dose selector will stop at the number of units left. If you cannot select your full prescribed dose, use a new pen or inject the remaining units and use a new pen to complete your dose.

Even numbers are shown in line with the dose pointer:

Buttocks

Thighs

pharmacist or nurse. Do not touch the injection button yet.

Take care when handling needles – this is to prevent needle injury and cross-infection. Never put the inner needle cap back on.

to unscrew the needle from the pen. To reduce the risk of accidental needle injury, never replace the inner needle cap. If your injection is given by another person, or if you are giving an injection to another person, special caution must be taken by this person when removing and disposing of the needle. Follow recommended safety measures for removal and disposal of needles (contact your doctor, pharmacist or nurse) in order to reduce the risk of accidental needle injury and transmission of infectious diseases.

container, or as told by your pharmacist or local authority.

in and hold. Do not press at an angle – your thumb could block the dose selector from turning. Do not put the pen back in the fridge.

You may need to repeat this step up to 3 times before seeing insulin. If no insulin comes out after the third time, the needle may be blocked. If this happens: change the needle (see STEP 6 and STEP 2), then repeat the safety test (STEP 3). Do not use your pen if there is still no insulin coming out of the needle tip. Use a new pen. Never use a syringe to remove insulin from your pen.

Odd numbers are shown as a line between even numbers:

dose window, slowly count to 10. This will make sure you get your full dose.

10 secs

button. Then remove the needle from your skin.

Take care when handling needles – this is to prevent needle injury and cross-infection.

You may see air bubbles in the insulin. This is normal, they will not harm you.

Your pen contains a total of 300 units of insulin. You can select doses from 1 to 80 units in steps of 1 unit. Each pen contains more than one dose. You can see roughly how many units of insulin are left by looking at where the plunger is on the insulin scale.

Change the needle (see STEP 6 and STEP 2) then do a safety test (see STEP 3). If you still find it hard to press in, get a new pen. Never use a syringe to remove insulin from your pen.

Frequently asked questions about Admelog 100 units/ml solution for injection in pre filled pen

How do I take Admelog 100 units/ml solution for injection in pre filled pen?

Admelog 100 units/ml solution for injection in pre filled pen comes as injection containing 100iu. Always follow the dose your doctor or pharmacist has given you, and read the leaflet that comes with the medicine.

What is the active substance in Admelog 100 units/ml solution for injection in pre filled pen?

The active substance in Admelog 100 units/ml solution for injection in pre filled pen is insulin lispro.

Are there equivalent medicines to Admelog 100 units/ml solution for injection in pre filled pen?

Medicines with the same active substance, strength and form include: Admelog 100 units/ml solution for injection in cartridge, Admelog 100 units/ml solution for injection in vial, Humalog 100 units/ml Junior KwikPen, solution for injection in a pre-filled pen. In total there are 10 equivalent products. They are interchangeable only if your prescriber or pharmacist says so.

Where does this information come from?

This leaflet reproduces the patient information leaflet approved for Admelog 100 units/ml solution for injection in pre filled pen, as published on the electronic medicines compendium (emc). The version printed inside your medicine’s packaging is the one that applies to you.

Can I get Admelog 100 units/ml solution for injection in pre filled pen without a prescription?

Whether a medicine is available over the counter or on prescription only depends on its licence. Check the leaflet, or ask your pharmacist — they can tell you straight away.

About this leaflet

The text above reproduces the patient information leaflet approved for this medicine, restructured for easier reading.

Medical disclaimer: This page is for information only and does not replace advice from your doctor or pharmacist. Always read the leaflet supplied with your medicine. If you are unwell, call NHS 111; in an emergency, call 999.

Medicines with the same active substance: Insulin lispro (18 medicines)
See every medicine containing this substance, or browse the full A–Z of active substances.
⚕For healthcare professionals — Summary of Product Characteristics (SmPC)Full SmPC: dosage, interactions, contraindications, warnings+
Technical information intended for healthcare professionals (doctors and pharmacists). The Summary of Product Characteristics (SmPC) is the official document approved by the MHRA/EMA. It does not replace the patient leaflet or a doctor’s advice.

4.1. Therapeutic indications

For the treatment of adults and children with diabetes mellitus who require insulin for the maintenance of normal glucose homeostasis. Admelog is also indicated for the initial stabilisation of diabetes mellitus.

4.2. Posology and method of administration

Posology

The dose should be determined by the physician, according to the requirement of the patient.

Insulin lispro may be given shortly before meals. When necessary insulin lispro can be given soon after meals.

Insulin lispro takes effect rapidly and has a shorter duration of activity (2 – 5 hours) given subcutaneously as compared with regular insulin. This rapid onset of activity allows an Admelog injection (or, in the case of administration by continuous subcutaneous infusion, an Admelog bolus) to be given very close to mealtime. The time course of action of any insulin may vary considerably in different individuals or at different times in the same individual. The faster onset of action compared to soluble human insulin is maintained regardless of injection site. As with all insulin preparations, the duration of action of insulin lispro is dependent on dose, site of injection, blood supply, temperature, and physical activity.

Admelog can be used in conjunction with a longer-acting insulin or oral sulphonylurea medicinal products, on the advice of a physician.

Special populations

Renal impairment

Insulin requirements may be reduced in the presence of renal impairment.

Hepatic impairment

Insulin requirements may be reduced in patients with hepatic impairment due to reduced capacity for gluconeogenesis and reduced insulin breakdown; however, in patients with chronic hepatic impairment, an increase in insulin resistance may lead to increased insulin requirements.

Paediatric population

Admelog can be used in adolescents and children (see section 5.1).

Method of administration

Admelog solution for injection should be given by subcutaneous injection or by continuous subcutaneous infusion pump (see section 4.2) and may, although not recommended, also be given by intramuscular injection.

If necessary, Admelog may also be administered intravenously, for example, for the control of blood glucose levels during ketoacidosis, acute illnesses or during intra and post-operative periods.

Subcutaneous administration of Admelog

Subcutaneous administration should be in the upper arms, thighs, buttocks, or abdomen. Injection sites should always be rotated within the same region in order to reduce the risk of lipodystrophy and cutaneous amyloidosis (see section 4.4 and 4.8).

When administered subcutaneously care should be taken when injecting Admelog to ensure that a blood vessel has not been entered. After injection, the site of injection should not be massaged. Patients must be educated to use the proper injection techniques.

Insulin lispro in pre-filled pen is available in two strengths (100 units/ml and 200 units/ml). However, Admelog in pre-filled pen is available in one strength only: 100 units/ml. For both, the needed dose is dialled in units. The number of insulin units is shown in the dose window of the pen regardless of strength and no dose conversion should be done when transferring a patient to a new strength or to another insulin lispro pre-filled pen with a different dose step.

Admelog in pre-filled pen delivers 1 – 80 units in increments of 1 unit in a single injection. Considering that Admelog is only available as 100 units/ml pre-filled pen, if an alternate strength is required, other insulin lispro medicinal products offering such an option should be used.

Admelog 100 units/ml in pre-filled pen is only suitable for subcutaneous injections. If administration by syringe, intravenous injection or infusion pump is necessary, a vial should be used (see section 4.4).

4.3. Contraindications

Hypersensitivity to the active substance(s) or to any of the excipients listed in section 6.1.

Hypoglycaemia.

4.4. Special warnings and precautions for use

Traceability

In order to improve the traceability of biological medicinal products, the name and the batch number of the administered product should be clearly recorded.

Transferring a patient to another type or brand of insulin

Transferring a patient to another type or brand of insulin should be done under strict medical supervision. Changes in strength, brand (manufacturer), type (regular, NPH, lente, etc.), species (animal, human, human insulin analogue), and/or method of manufacture (recombinant DNA versus animal-source insulin) may result in the need for a change in dosage. For fast-acting insulins, any patient also on basal insulin must optimise dosage of both insulins to obtain glucose control across the whole day, particularly nocturnal/fasting glucose control.

Injection technique

Patients must be instructed to perform continuous rotation of the injection site to reduce the risk of developing lipodystrophy and cutaneous amyloidosis. There is a potential risk of delayed insulin absorption and worsened glycaemic control following insulin injections at sites with these reactions. A sudden change in the injection site to an unaffected area has been reported to result in hypoglycaemia. Blood glucose monitoring is recommended after the change in the injection site, and dose adjustment of antidiabetic medications may be considered.

Hypoglycaemia or hyperglycaemia

Conditions which may make the early warning symptoms of hypoglycaemia different or less pronounced include long duration of diabetes, intensified insulin therapy, diabetic nerve disease or medications such as beta-blockers.

A few patients who have experienced hypoglycaemic reactions after transfer from animal-source insulin to human insulin have reported that the early warning symptoms of hypoglycaemia were less pronounced or different from those experienced with their previous insulin. Uncorrected hypoglycaemic or hyperglycaemic reactions can cause loss of consciousness, coma, or death.

The use of doses which are inadequate or discontinuation of treatment, especially in insulin-dependent diabetics, may lead to hyperglycaemia and diabetic ketoacidosis; conditions which are potentially lethal.

Insulin requirements and dosage adjustment

Insulin requirements may be increased during illness or emotional disturbances.

Adjustment of dosage may also be necessary if patients undertake increased physical activity or change their usual diet. Exercise taken immediately after a meal may increase the risk of hypoglycaemia. A consequence of the pharmacodynamics of rapid-acting insulin analogues is that if hypoglycaemia occurs, it may occur earlier after an injection when compared with soluble human insulin.

Combination of Admelog with pioglitazone

Cases of cardiac failure have been reported when pioglitazone was used in combination with insulin, especially in patients with risk factors for development of cardiac heart failure. This should be kept in mind, if treatment with the combination of pioglitazone and Admelog is considered. If the combination is used, patients should be observed for signs and symptoms of heart failure, weight gain and oedema. Pioglitazone should be discontinued, if any deterioration in cardiac symptoms occurs.

Avoidance of medication errors when using Admelog

Patients must be instructed to always check the insulin label before each injection to avoid accidental mix-ups between Admelog and other insulin products.

Patients must visually verify the dialled units on the dose counter of the pen. Therefore, the requirement for patients to self-inject is that they can read the dose counter on the pen. Patients who are blind or have poor vision must be instructed to always get help/assistance from another person who has good vision and is trained in using the insulin device.

Admelog 100 units/ml in pre-filled pen is only suitable for subcutaneous injections. If administration by syringe, intravenous injection or infusion pump is necessary, a vial should be used. To prevent the possible transmission of disease, each pen must be used by one patient only, even if the needle is changed.

Excipients

This medicinal product contains less than 1 mmol sodium (23 mg) per dose, that is to say essentially “sodium-free”.

4.5. Interaction with other medicinal products and other forms of interaction

Insulin requirements may be increased by medicinal products with hyperglycaemic activity, such as oral contraceptives, corticosteroids, or thyroid replacement therapy, danazol, beta2 stimulants (such as ritodrine, salbutamol, terbutaline).

Insulin requirements may be reduced in the presence of medicinal products with hypoglycaemic activity, such as oral hypoglycaemics, salicylates (for example, acetylsalicylic acid), sulpha antibiotics, certain antidepressants (monoamine oxidase inhibitors, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors), certain angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors (captopril, enalapril), angiotensin II receptor blockers, beta-blockers, octreotide or alcohol.

The physician should be consulted when using other medicinal products in addition to Admelog (see section 4.4).

4.6. Fertility, pregnancy and lactation

Pregnancy

Data on a large number of exposed pregnancies do not indicate any adverse effect of insulin lispro on pregnancy or on the health of the fetus/newborn.

It is essential to maintain good control of the insulin-treated (insulin-dependent or gestational diabetes) patient throughout pregnancy. Insulin requirements usually fall during the first trimester and increase during the second and third trimesters. Patients with diabetes should be advised to inform their doctor if they are pregnant or are contemplating pregnancy. Careful monitoring of glucose control, as well as general health, is essential in pregnant patients with diabetes.

Breast-feeding

Patients with diabetes who are breast-feeding may require adjustments in insulin dose, diet or both.

Fertility

Insulin lispro did not induce fertility impairment in animal studies (see section 5.3).

4.7. Effects on ability to drive and use machines

The patient's ability to concentrate and react may be impaired as a result of hypoglycaemia. This may constitute a risk in situations where these abilities are of special importance (e.g. driving a car or using machines).

Patients should be advised to take precautions to avoid hypoglycaemia whilst driving, this is particularly important in those who have reduced or absent awareness of the warning signs of hypoglycaemia or have frequent episodes of hypoglycaemia. The advisability of driving should be considered in these circumstances.

4.8. Undesirable effects

Summary of the safety profile

Hypoglycaemia is the most frequent adverse reaction of insulin therapy that a patient with diabetes may suffer. Severe hypoglycaemia may lead to loss of consciousness, and in extreme cases, death. No specific frequency for hypoglycaemia is presented, since hypoglycaemia is a result of both the insulin dose and other factors e.g. a patient`s level of diet and exercise.

Tabulated list of adverse reactions

The following related adverse reactions from clinical investigations are listed below by system organ class and in order of decreasing incidence (very common: ≥1/10; common: ≥1/100 to <1/10; uncommon: ≥1/1,000 to <1/100; rare: ≥1/10,000 to <1/1,000; very rare: <1/10,000) and not known (cannot be estimated from the available data).

Within each frequency grouping, adverse reactions are presented in order of decreasing seriousness.

MedDRA system organ classes

Common

Uncommon

Rare

Not known

Immune system disorders

Local allergy

X

Systemic allergy

X

Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders

Lipodystrophy

X

Cutaneous amyloidosis

X

Description of selected adverse reactions

Local allergy

Local allergy in patients is common. Redness, swelling, and itching can occur at the site of insulin injection. This condition usually resolves in a few days to a few weeks. In some instances, this condition may be related to factors other than insulin, such as irritants in the skin cleansing agent or poor injection technique.

Systemic allergy

Systemic allergy, which is rare but potentially more serious, is a generalised allergy to insulin. It may cause a rash over the whole body, shortness of breath, wheezing, reduction in blood pressure, fast pulse, or sweating. Severe cases of generalised allergy may be life-threatening.

Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders

Lipodystrophy and cutaneous amyloidosis may occur at the injection site and delay local insulin absorption. Continuous rotation of the injection site within the given injection area may help to reduce or prevent these reactions (see section 4.4).

Oedema

Cases of oedema have been reported with insulin therapy, particularly if previous poor metabolic control is improved by intensified insulin therapy.

Reporting of suspected adverse reactions

Reporting suspected adverse reactions after authorisation of the medicinal product is important. It allows continued monitoring of the benefit/risk balance of the medicinal product. Healthcare professionals are asked to report any suspected adverse reactions via Yellow Card Scheme at: www.mhra.gov.uk/yellowcard or search for MHRA Yellow Card in the Google Play or Apple App Store.

4.9. Overdose

Insulins have no specific overdose definitions because serum glucose concentrations are a result of complex interactions between insulin levels, glucose availability and other metabolic processes. Hypoglycaemia may occur as a result of an excess of insulin activity relative to food intake and energy expenditure.

Hypoglycaemia may be associated with listlessness, confusion, palpitations, headache, sweating and vomiting.

Mild hypoglycaemic episodes will respond to oral administration of glucose or other sugar or saccharated products.

Correction of moderately severe hypoglycaemia can be accomplished by intramuscular or subcutaneous administration of glucagon, followed by oral carbohydrate when the patient recovers sufficiently. Patients who fail to respond to glucagon must be given glucose solution intravenously.

If the patient is comatose, glucagon should be administered intramuscularly or subcutaneously. However, glucose solution must be given intravenously if glucagon is not available or if the patient fails to respond to glucagon. The patient should be given a meal as soon as consciousness is recovered.

Sustained carbohydrate intake and observation may be necessary because hypoglycaemia may recur after apparent clinical recovery.

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