To print: Select File and then Print from your browser's menu --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Title: Humalog Mix25 Available In Canada For Insulin-Dependent Diabetes URL: http://www.pslgroup.com/dg/13072A.htm Doctor's Guide September 22, 1999
TORONTO, ON. -- September 22, 1999 -- Eli Lilly Canada announced today Health Canada's approval of its unique insulin mixture, Humalog® Mix25™. A mixture of 25 percent insulin lispro (the rapid-acting insulin currently available as Humalog) and 75 percent NPL (a novel intermediate acting insulin), Humalog Mix25 overcomes some of the limitations of other premixed insulin formulations.
For those who use insulin at mealtimes, Humalog Mix25 allows for injection immediately before a meal, while for other insulin mixtures to be most effective, patients must take their injection at least 30 minutes prior to a meal.
"The ability to provide patients with an effective insulin mixture that reduces two of the most significant risks facing those living with diabetes - hyperglycemia after meals and unexpected hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) - is welcome news," said Dr. Bernard Zinman, Head of the Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism at Mount Sinai Hospital and Professor of Medicine at the University of Toronto. "The fact that Humalog Mix25 is more convenient to use means people living with diabetes will find it much easier to comply with their medication."
"Good diabetes care involves a significant amount of work - everyday for the rest of your life," said Joseph Komaromi, who has been living with diabetes for more than six years. "Thanks to Humalog Mix25 my blood sugars are more tightly controlled than ever before and I've been feeling better than ever."
Significant Risks
Two of the most significant health risks affecting people with diabetes are low blood sugar levels (hypoglycemia), and high blood sugar levels (hyperglycemia). Recent research has shown that diabetic complications such as eye and kidney disease and nerve damage can be prevented or avoided through consistent and improved management of blood sugar levels.
Hypoglycemia, also known as insulin shock, is caused when blood sugar levels drop below 3.5 mmol/L. This effect can be triggered by an overdose of insulin, a decreased amount of food, or an increase in exercise, and may result in trembling, sweating, hunger, dizziness, confusion and numbness.
In clinical trials, Humalog Mix25 was proven to reduce the number of overnight hypoglycemic events by 50 percent (1) and improve post-meal control of blood sugar levels compared to currently available pre-mixed insulins. Humalog Mix25 reaches peak activity approximately one hour after meals, drops rapidly, and then continues to provide steady insulin levels comparable to intermediate-acting insulin. This course of action offers reduced risk of hypoglycemic episodes, and better post-prandial (following meals) glycemic control.
Following meals, when blood sugar levels increase significantly beyond normal levels, people with diabetes may experience hyperglycemic symptoms such as frequent urination, increased thirst and weight loss. If not managed properly, hyperglycemia can lead to chronic complications of diabetes including heart disease, loss of vision, kidney failure and nerve damage.
Diabetes in Canada
In Canada, more than 1.5 million people have been diagnosed with diabetes, and an estimated 750,000 people have the disease but are not aware of it. Diabetes is a condition in which the body is unable to produce or effectively use insulin, a hormone that enables the body to convert food into energy. As a result, sugar remains in the blood stream causing blood sugar levels to rise. Over time, high blood sugar levels can damage blood vessels and nerves leading to an array of complications.
Diabetes is most prevalent in two forms:
- Type 1 Diabetes is when the body produces no insulin. Previously known as juvenile diabetes, type 1 diabetes usually starts in children or young adults and typically affects 10 percent of all people with diabetes. All people with type 1 diabetes must take daily insulin injections.
- Type 2 Diabetes is when the pancreas continues to produce insulin yet the body is unable to use it. Type 2 diabetes affects 90 percent of people with the disease and is usually diagnosed in those over 45 years of age. Many people with type 2 diabetes can use pills alone to control their diabetes but a significant number also require insulin.
There is no cure for diabetes. The optimal use of insulin therapies therefore plays a critical role in achieving long-term health for individuals affected by the disease.
Humalog Mix25 is available in 3.0mL cartridges for use with HumaPen®, the latest in insulin delivery devices. Humalog Mix25 and HumaPen are available in pharmacies and diabetes centres across Canada.
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