Medications and Drugs

1. Type 2 Diabetes Slideshow Pictures
2. Diabetes and Foot Problems Slideshow
3. Take the Diabetes Quiz!

Brand Names: NovoLog, NovoLog FlexPen, NovoLog PenFill

Generic Name: insulin aspart (Pronunciation: IN su lin AS part)

• What is insulin aspart (NovoLog, NovoLog FlexPen, NovoLog PenFill)?
• What are the possible side effects of insulin aspart (NovoLog, NovoLog FlexPen, NovoLog PenFill)?
• What is the most important information I should know about insulin aspart (NovoLog, NovoLog FlexPen, NovoLog PenFill)?
• What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before using insulin aspart (NovoLog, NovoLog FlexPen, NovoLog PenFill)?
• How should I use insulin aspart (NovoLog, NovoLog FlexPen, NovoLog PenFill)?
• What happens if I miss a dose (NovoLog, NovoLog FlexPen, NovoLog PenFill)?
• What happens if I overdose (NovoLog, NovoLog FlexPen, NovoLog PenFill)?
• What should I avoid while using insulin aspart (NovoLog, NovoLog FlexPen, NovoLog PenFill)?
• What other drugs will affect insulin aspart (NovoLog, NovoLog FlexPen, NovoLog PenFill)?
• Where can I get more information?

What is insulin aspart (NovoLog, NovoLog FlexPen, NovoLog PenFill)?

Insulin is a hormone that is produced in the body. It works by lowering levels of glucose (sugar) in the blood. Insulin aspart is a fast-acting form of insulin.

Insulin aspart is used to treat type 1 (insulin-dependent) diabetes in adults and children who are at least 2 years old. Insulin aspart is usually given together with another long-acting insulin.

Insulin aspart may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.

What are the possible side effects of insulin aspart (NovoLog, NovoLog FlexPen, NovoLog PenFill)?

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of insulin allergy: itching skin rash over the entire body, wheezing, trouble breathing, fast heart rate, sweating, or feeling like you might pass out.

Call your doctor if you have a serious side effect such as:

• swelling in your hands or feet; or
• low potassium (confusion, uneven heart rate, extreme thirst, increased urination, leg discomfort, muscle weakness or limp feeling).

Hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar, is the most common side effect of insulin aspart. Symptoms of low blood sugar may include headache, nausea, hunger, confusion, drowsiness, weakness, dizziness, blurred vision, fast heartbeat, sweating, tremor, trouble concentrating, confusion, or seizure (convulsions). Watch for signs of low blood sugar. Carry a piece of non-dietetic hard candy or glucose tablets with you in case you have low blood sugar.

Insulin aspart can also cause hypokalemia (low potassium levels in the blood). Call your doctor at once if you have symptoms such as dry mouth, increased thirst, increased urination, uneven heartbeats, muscle pain or weakness, leg pain or discomfort, or confusion.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What is the most important information I should know about insulin aspart (NovoLog, NovoLog FlexPen, NovoLog PenFill)?

Insulin aspart is a fast-acting insulin that begins to work very quickly. After using it, you should eat a meal within 5 to 10 minutes.

Take care to keep your blood sugar from getting too low, causing hypoglycemia. Symptoms of low blood sugar may include headache, nausea, hunger, confusion, drowsiness, weakness, dizziness, blurred vision, fast heartbeat, sweating, tremor, or trouble concentrating. Carry a piece of non-dietetic hard candy or glucose tablets with you in case you have low blood sugar. Also be sure your family and close friends know how to help you in an emergency.

Also watch for signs of blood sugar that is too high (hyperglycemia). These symptoms include increased thirst, loss of appetite, fruity breath odor, increased urination, nausea, vomiting, drowsiness, dry skin, and dry mouth. Check your blood sugar levels and ask your doctor how to adjust your insulin doses if needed.

Never share an injection pen or cartridge with another person. Sharing injection pens or cartridges can allow disease such as hepatitis or HIV to pass from one person to another.

Need help identifying pills and medications?
Use the pill finder tool on RxList.