How do you refill a Fiasp insulin pen?

Fiasp, a fast-acting insulin aspart injection, is a trademark of Novo Nordisk A/S. It is available in a multi-dose vial, a FlexTouch pen, a PenFill cartridge and device, and a PumpCart cartridge for use in compatible insulin pumps. These will come with separate instructions on how to properly use them. Your healthcare provider should demonstrate these instructions prior to you giving your first dose. Here we will discuss how to use your Fiasp PenFill cartridge, how it works, its side effects, and other important frequently asked questions.

How to use your Fiasp PenFill cartridge

To prepare to give your injection of Fiasp:

  • Wash your hands using water and soap.
  • Check your Fiasp cartridge label and ensure that it is the right insulin. This is very important if you use multiple types of insulin.
  • If this is the first use, the tamper-resistant foil will be in place. If it is not there or is broken, do not use it.
  • Inspect the cartridge as well as the insulin in it. Do not use it if the cartridge is damaged, if the threaded end is loose, or if the insulin is cloudy or colored.

To give your Fiasp injection:

  • Insert a Fiasp cartridge threaded end first into a compatible device.
  • Tear the paper tab off of a new needle and attach it to the delivery device only when you are going to give the injection. Be sure the needle is not bent or damaged and that it is screwed on tight. Do not reuse needles or share them with other people.
  • Pull the outer cap off of the needle but don’t throw it in the trash. Then pull the inner cap off of the needle and discard it.
  • Do an air shot to remove air bubbles and ensure full medication dose. Follow the device-specific instructions for doing this.
  • Test your cartridge up to 6 times until you see a drop of insulin at the tip of the needle. If not, change the needle and repeat this step.
  • Ensure the dose counter is at 0 before selecting your dose. Turn the selector clockwise until the pointer lines up with your correct dose.
  • Inject your dose of Fiasp exactly as instructed by your doctor or healthcare provider. You may need to pinch your skin. Inject in the abdomen, upper arms, or thighs.
  • Clean the injection site with an alcohol swab, let it dry, and do not touch it.
  • Rotate injection sites. Avoid injecting into skin that is damaged, lumpy, or scarred.

Fiasp FAQs

What is Fiasp used for?

Fiasp (insulin aspart) is a rapid-acting insulin that is given as a subcutaneous injection. It is FDA-approved to improve blood sugar control in adult and pediatric patients with:

  • Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM)
  • Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM)

How does Fiasp work?

Fiasp (insulin aspart) is a fast-acting insulin that works like the hormone your pancreas makes. It causes your body to absorb and store sugar from your bloodstream and stop your liver from making more glucose. Fiasp is typically given as a mealtime insulin dose to help prevent hyperglycemia (high blood sugar levels) after eating.

Fiasp is unique from other aspart products and fast-acting insulins such as glulisine and lispro because it has L-arginine and niacinamide in it to help you absorb the medication quicker.

What are the most common side effects of Fiasp?

  • Hypoglycemia (low blood glucose levels)
  • Infusion and injection site reactions
  • Allergic reactions
  • Cutaneous amyloidosis
  • Lipodystrophy
  • Weight gain

Fiasp can rarely cause serious side effects such as:

  • Dangerously low blood sugars
  • Hypokalemia (low potassium levels)
  • Increased risk of disease and infections if you share your pen, syringe, or needle
  • Swelling and worsening heart failure if taken along with a thiazolidinedione like Actos (pioglitazone)

Disclaimer: These are not all of the possible side effects of Fiasp. Always seek medical advice from your healthcare professional for any questions or concerns. Read all important safety information and prescribing information. Report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch.

Are there any drug interactions with Fiasp?

Fiasp can interact with other drugs. Ask your healthcare provider about any prescription or OTC medications, supplements, or vitamins you take. Possible interactions include:

  • Other antidiabetic medications
  • Meds that affect blood sugar like glucagon
  • Meds that block symptoms of low blood sugar like beta-blockers, guanethidine, clonidine, and reserpine

What should you tell your doctor before starting Fiasp?

Inform your healthcare provider if you have:

  • Kidney problems
  • Liver problems
  • Are pregnant or plan to become pregnant
  • Are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed

What warnings are there with Fiasp?

  • Never share your pen, syringe, cartridge, or device.
  • Serious low blood sugars can occur. Monitor blood glucose closely.
  • Risk of low potassium levels—monitor and treat if necessary.
  • Fluid retention and heart failure can occur when used with TZDs.
  • Alcohol can affect how your body responds to insulin.

What type of insulin is Fiasp?

Fiasp is a fast-acting insulin aspart that helps manage blood sugar in type 1 and type 2 diabetes. It includes L-arginine and niacinamide to help it work more quickly.

Can you use Fiasp in an insulin pump?

Yes. Fiasp is one of several rapid-acting insulins that can be used in an insulin infusion pump, which delivers small doses throughout the day. Long-acting insulins are not used in pumps.

How should you store Fiasp?

  • Store unused FlexTouch Pens or vials in the refrigerator (36°F to 46°F) or at room temperature below 86°F.
  • After opening, store at room temperature or refrigerate for up to 28 days.
  • Store unused PenFill cartridges in the refrigerator. After starting, store in the device at room temperature for up to 28 days. Do not refrigerate again.

Related medications

  • Apidra (insulin glulisine)
  • Humalog Vial (insulin lispro)
  • Lantus (insulin glargine)
  • Fiasp FlexTouch (insulin aspart)
  • Novolog FlexPen (insulin aspart)

Sources