Eli Lilly Releases Updated Guidelines for Patients Using Insulin Pumps
Eli Lilly and Company, a leading pharmaceutical company, has recently released updated guidelines for patients on insulin pumps. These vital instructions aim to ensure the safe usage of insulin pump therapy and optimize the effectiveness of treatment for individuals with diabetes.
One of the key recommendations in the guidelines is the importance of appropriate training for patients using external pump infusion therapy. Adequate training helps patients understand how to properly use the insulin pump and ensures they are aware of potential risks and precautions.
The guidelines also highlight the insulin pumps that have been tested in HUMALOG clinical trials conducted by Eli Lilly. HUMALOG, a fast-acting insulin, is recommended for use in pumps suitable for insulin infusion, such as MiniMed, Disetronic, and other equivalent pumps. It is crucial for patients to check the pump label before using HUMALOG in a pump system to ensure it is indicated for continuous delivery of fast-acting insulin.
To maintain the effectiveness of the insulin and prevent degradation, the guidelines emphasize the importance of regular replacements. Insulin in the reservoir should be replaced every seven days to avoid degradation and infusion set occlusion. Infusion sets and infusion set insertion sites should be changed every three days. It is also crucial to discard any insulin that has been exposed to temperatures higher than 98.6°F (37°C). Exposure to high temperatures can compromise the quality of the insulin.
In addition, the guidelines advise patients to monitor their infusion sites for any signs of irritation or reaction. If the site becomes erythematous, pruritic, or thickened, it should be reported to a healthcare professional. Continuing infusion in such areas may aggravate the skin reaction or affect the absorption of HUMALOG.
The guidelines also emphasize the importance of prompt identification and correction of any malfunctions or degradation in the pump or infusion set. Rapid hyperglycemia and ketosis can occur if insulin degradation or pump malfunctions are not addressed. Patients are advised to contact their healthcare professionals if they cannot promptly correct these problems. In such cases, patients should revert to subcutaneous insulin injections until the issues are resolved.
Eli Lilly and Company recommends using HUMALOG in accordance with the guidelines to ensure safe and effective insulin pump therapy. It is essential for patients to adhere to these instructions to minimize the risks associated with insulin pump usage.
These updated guidelines provide informative and crucial information for individuals using insulin pumps. Patients are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the guidelines and consult their healthcare professionals for any further clarification or concerns. By following these instructions, patients can better manage their diabetes and optimize their treatment outcomes.
