A generic drug is a copy of the brand-name drug with the same dosage, safety, strength, quality, consumption method, performance, and intended use. Before generics become available on the market, the generic company must prove it has the same active ingredients as the brand-name drug and works in the same way and in the same amount of time in the body.
The only differences between generics and their brand-name counterparts is that generics are less expensive and may look slightly different (eg. different shape or color), as trademarks laws prevent a generic from looking exactly like the brand-name drug.
Generics are less expensive because generic manufacturers don't have to invest large sums of money to develop a drug. When the brand-name patent expires, generic companies can manufacture a copy of the brand-name and sell it at a substantial discount.
Kirsty (Insulin Aspart) is a rapid-acting insulin analog designed to enhance blood sugar management in both adults and children with diabetes mellitus. It is designed to mimic the body's natural insulin response to meals, providing a rapid onset and short duration of action. Kirsty is used to help control blood sugar levels during meals, aiding those with diabetes in managing their condition more effectively. Insulin aspart, the active ingredient in Kirsty, is identical to naturally occurring human insulin except for a single substitution of the amino acid proline with aspartic acid at position 28 of the B-chain.
Before you buy Kirsty insulin, it is crucial that you talk to your healthcare provider about potential side effects and insulin aspart cost.
Fact Table | |
---|---|
Formula | C256H381N65O79S6 |
License | FDA Approved |
Bioavailability | 60-70% |
Legal status | Prescription Drugs |
Chemical Name | Insulin Aspart |
Elimination half-life | 3-4 hours |
Dosage (Strength) | Various (e.g., 100 units/mL) |
Pregnancy | Can be used with monitoring |
Brands | Kirsty |
Protein binding | Low |
PubChem CID | 16132218 |
MedlinePlus | a605013 |
ChEBI | 83549 |
ATC code | A10AB05 |
DrugBank | DB01323 |
KEGG | D04522 |
Routes of administration | Subcutaneous injection |
Kirsty is administered via subcutaneous injection. Insulin aspart injection can be injected into the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm. Switch injection sites within the same area for each administration to minimize the risk of developing lipodystrophy and localized cutaneous amyloidosis. Dosage is individualized based on the patient's needs. The usual starting dose for adults with type 1 diabetes is typically one-third to one-half of the total daily insulin requirement.
Active Ingredient: Insulin Aspart (100 units/mL)
Hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar, is the most common adverse effect of insulin, including Kirsty. Know the symptoms of low blood sugar, which include headache, dizziness, drowsiness, sweating, weakness, irritability, and fast heartbeat.
Do not share your Kirsty pen with others even if the needle has been changed, as it may pose a risk of transmission of infectious diseases.
Keep track of blood glucose levels in all patients receiving insulin treatment. Adjustments in dose, diet, and exercise should be made to manage hypoglycemia.
Drugs that may increase the risk of hypoglycemia:
Drugs that may decrease the effectiveness of Kirsty:
Common side effects of Kirsty include, but are not limited to:
What is insulin aspart?
Insulin aspart is a synthetic insulin with a rapid-acting formula, created through recombinant DNA technology. It is designed to mimic the body's natural insulin response to meals by controlling blood sugar levels quickly.
What is aspart insulin used for?
Insulin aspart is primarily used to manage blood sugar levels in individuals with type 1 and type 2 diabetes. It helps to handle spikes in blood glucose levels that occur after meals, thereby preventing the acute complications of high blood sugar, like hyperglycemia.
Is insulin aspart fast acting?
Yes, insulin aspart is considered fast-acting. It typically begins to work within 15 minutes after injection, reaches peak effectiveness about 1 to 3 hours later, and lasts for 3 to 5 hours in total.
Are insulin aspart and lispro the same?
No, insulin aspart and insulin lispro are not the same. Both are rapid-acting insulins but they have different amino acid substitutions which affect how quickly they are absorbed in the body. Insulin lispro is marketed under the name Humalog.
How does insulin aspart work?
Insulin aspart works by promoting the uptake of glucose from the blood into the body's cells, particularly after eating. It binds to insulin receptors on cells, facilitating the conversion of glucose into energy and effectively lowering blood glucose levels.
How long does insulin aspart last?
Insulin aspart typically lasts for about 3 to 5 hours in the body. This duration makes it suitable for controlling blood sugar levels during meals.
Does aspart insulin need to be refrigerated?
Yes, unused insulin aspart should be stored in the refrigerator. However, the vial or pen that you are currently using can be kept at room temperature (below 86°F/30°C) for up to 28 days, making it easier to carry and use.
When to take aspart insulin?
Aspart insulin should be taken immediately before a meal, typically within 5 to 10 minutes before eating. This timing helps to effectively manage the rise in blood glucose that occurs following meal consumption.