Apidra Solostar Caution For Usage

Instructions for Use: Solostar is a pre-filled pen for injection of insulin. Talk with the healthcare professional about proper injection technique before using Solostar:
Doses can be set from 1-80 units in steps of 1 unit. Each pen contains multiple doses.
To prevent the possible transmission of disease, each pen must be used by 1 patient only. Before use, always attach a new needle and perform a safety test. Only use needles that are compatible for use with Solostar. Look at the cartridge sealed in the disposable pen injector before using. Use only if the solution is clear, colorless and has no visible particles in it. Do not shake or mix before use. Always use a new pen if blood sugar control is unexpectedly getting worse. Never use Solostar if it is damaged or if uncertain that it is working properly. Always have a spare Solostar in case not sure it is lost or damaged.
Step 1. Check the Insulin: Check the label on the Solostar to make sure that the patient has the correct insulin. The Apidra Solostar is blue. It has a dark blue injection button with a raised ring on the top.
Take off the pen cap.
Check the appearance of the insulin. Apidra Solostar is a clear insulin. Do not use this Solostar if the insulin is cloudy, colored or has particles.
Step 2. Attach the Needle: Always use a new sterile needle for each injection. This helps prevent contamination, and potential needle blocks.
Remove the protective seal from a new needle.
Line up the needle with the pen, and keep it straight as it is attached (screw or push on, depending on the needle type).
If the needle is not kept straight while attaching it, it can damage the rubber seal and cause leakage, or break the needle.
Step 3. Perform a Safety Test: Always perform the safety test before each injection. This ensures that an accurate dose is given by ensuring that the pen and needle work properly and by removing air bubbles.
Select a dose of 2 by turning the dosage selector.
Take off the outer needle cap and keep it to remove the used needle after injection. Take off the inner needle cap and discard it.
Hold the pen with the needle pointing upwards.
Tap the insulin reservoir so that any air bubbles rise up towards the needle.
Press the injection button all the way in. Check if insulin comes out of the needle tip.
The safety test may have to be performed several times before insulin is seen. If no insulin comes out, check for air bubbles and repeat the safety test 2 more times to remove them. If still no insulin comes out, the needle may be blocked. Change the needle and try again. If no insulin comes out after changing the needle, the Solostar may be damaged. Do not use this Solostar.
Step 4. Select the Dose: The dose can be set in steps of 1 unit, from a minimum of 1 unit to a maximum of 80 units. If a dose >80 units is needed, it should be given as ≥2 injections.
Check that the dose window shows "0" following the safety test.
Select the required dose. If the patient turns the selector past the desired dose, it can be turned back down.
Do not push the injection button while turning, as insulin will come out.
The dosage selector cannot be turned past the number of units left in the pen. Do not force the dosage selector to turn. In this case, either the patient can inject what is remaining in the pen and complete the dose with a new Solostar or use a new Solostar for the full dose.
Step 5. Inject the Dose: Use the injection method as instructed by the healthcare professional.
Insert the needle into the skin.
Deliver the dose by pressing the injection button in all the way. The number in the dose window will return to "0" as injected.
Keep the injection button pressed all the way in. Slowly count to 10 before withdrawing the needle from the skin. This ensures that the full dose will be delivered. The pen plunger moves with each dose. The plunger will reach the end of the cartridge when the total of 300 units of insulin have been used.
Step 6: Remove and Discard the Needle: Always remove the needle after each injection and store Apidra Solostar without a needle attached. This helps prevent contamination and/or infection, and entry of air into the insulin reservoir and leakage of insulin, which can cause inaccurate dosing.
Put the outer needle cap back on the needle, and use it to unscrew the needle from the pen. To reduce the risk of accidental needle injury, never replace the inner needle cap.
Dispose of the needle safely, as instructed by the health care professional.
Always put the pen cap back on the pen, then store the pen until the next injection.
Maintenance: Protect Apidra Solostar from dust and dirt. Clean the outside of the pen by wiping it with a damp cloth. Do not soak, wash or lubricate the pen as this may damage it. Apidra Solostar is designed to work accurately and safely. It should be handled with care. Avoid situations where the pen might be damaged. If the patient's Apidra Solostar may be damaged, use a new one.
Do not use Apidra Solostar if it does not appear clear and colorless.
Medicines should not be disposed of via wastewater or household waste. Ask the pharmacist how to dispose of medicines no longer required. These measures will help to protect the environment. Discard as required by local authorities.