What Is Insulin Aspart?

Insulin aspart is a synthetic type of insulin that is nearly identical to the natural insulin made in the human body. This hormone works quickly to control blood sugar levels in patients with diabetes. Although it is fast-acting, it does not last as long as other types of insulin, so patients should also follow their doctors' directions regarding using longer-acting insulin.

Patients with diabetes either cannot make enough insulin or their bodies cannot use it efficiently. Many diabetics must take insulin to help manage blood sugar levels, in addition to diet and exercise. Insulin is a hormone that encourages glucose, or sugar, in the bloodstream to enter cells. These cells can then use the glucose for energy to support the body.

This synthetic hormone is only available as an injection that is delivered subcutaneously, or under the skin. The doctor will typically instruct the patient to administer one insulin aspart injection five to 10 minutes before a meal. Eating after the injection will help prevent dangerously low blood sugar levels, called hypoglycemia.

Insulin aspart may be injected into the patient's thigh, abdomen, or the back of an upper arm. Patients must thoroughly wash their hands and sterilize the injection site. The exact injection procedure will vary, depending on whether the patient uses vials and syringes or a prefilled device, often called an insulin pen. A doctor can demonstrate the proper injection procedure to the patient.

Some mild side effects may occur while using insulin aspart. Patients may notice swelling, redness, or pain at the injection sites, or they may notice skin thickening or thinning in those areas. More serious side effects require immediate medical attention, including rapid heartbeat, sweating, and dizziness. Wheezing, shortness of breath, and blurred vision have also been reported.

Patients who have used too much insulin may experience hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar, which can present with shakiness, weakness, and hunger. It can also cause sudden mood changes, pale skin, and clumsy movements, along with headaches and irritability. Patients who suspect they have hypoglycemia must check their blood sugar and take a glucose tablet or snack as directed by their doctors. Severe or untreated hypoglycemia requires emergency medical intervention. This may be indicated by confusion, loss of consciousness, and seizures.

Before using insulin aspart to manage diabetes, patients must disclose their other medical conditions, medications, and supplements. It may be safe for use while pregnant or breastfeeding, or the doctor may switch the patient to another type of insulin. Patients should disclose whether they have thyroid problems, liver disease, or kidney disease. Insulin aspart may interact with other medications, including oral diabetes medicines, certain antibiotics, and monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs).