Insulin cartridge "clumping". Is it normal?

[pippaandben]

This is only the third cartridge I have used. I use Humalog mix 25. With the 2 others I rolled and rocked them on insertion into the pen and did not have to repeat the procedure as the mixture appeared to be uniformly cloudy throughout the 12 day usage. This week after replacing the cartridge I have noticed white residue and a separation each time when going to use the pen. It mixes easily and my readings show it is working ok. I keep them in the fridge door -still in the box and foil wrap.
I know outside temperatures are getting lower so perhaps I need to adjust fridge temperature? Or is this normal? Or should I change cartridge?

 

[Pumper_Sue]

This is only the third cartridge I have used. I use Humalog mix 25. With the 2 others I rolled and rocked them on insertion into the pen and did not have to repeat the procedure as the mixture appeared to be uniformly cloudy throughout the 12 day usage. This week after replacing the cartridge I have noticed white residue and a separation each time when going to use the pen. It mixes easily and my readings show it is working ok. I keep them in the fridge door -still in the box and foil wrap.
I know outside temperatures are getting lower so perhaps I need to adjust fridge temperature? Or is this normal? Or should I change cartridge?

Hi,
as it's a premix you have to roll gently each time you use it.
Are you also sure about the storage of in use pen? I have never used pens but have read on here and other forums that certain pens when in use need to be stored at room temp.

 

[pippaandben]

Hi,
as it's a premix you have to roll gently each time you use it.
Are you also sure about the storage of in use pen? I have never used pens but have read on here and other forums that certain pens when in use need to be stored at room temp.

I keep the pen itself in my "diabetes bag" which goes everywhere with me and is thus at room temperature - although overnight that might get a bit low now I suppose.

 

[PattiEvans]

ISTR that when I was on a pre-mix (though it was Novomix30) I had to roll and shake the pen before each injection.

 

[Flutterby]

Yes, generally speaking pre-mixed insulin needs to be gently rolled before use. The two types separate in between jabs.

 

[pippaandben]

Thanks for clarifying that for me everyone who responded. Why can't they write leaflets in plain english!!!

 

[Pumper_Sue]

Thanks for clarifying that for me everyone who responded. Why can't they write leaflets in plain english!!!

Here you go http://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/medicine/2678/PIL/

Preparing Humalog Mix25
? Cartridges containing Humalog Mix25 should be rotated in the palms of the hands ten times and inverted 180? ten times immediately before use to resuspend insulin until it appears uniformly cloudy or milky. If not, repeat the above procedure until contents are mixed. Cartridges contain a small glass bead to assist mixing. Do not shake vigorously as this may cause frothing which may interfere with the correct measurement of the dose. The cartridges should be examined frequently and should not be used if clumps of material are present or if solid white particles stick to the bottom or wall of the cartridge, giving it a frosted appearance. Check each time you inject yourself.
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