Patients on Apidra insulin (glulisine) may need to switch onto a different method or a different brand of insulin following a technical glitch in the manufacturing process in Frankfurt, Germany. Normal supply is expected to resume around March 2012.
The problems will affect anyone using the Optiset or SoloStar prefilled insulin pens and ClikStar cartridges.
The insulin, made by Sanofi Aventis, is the only medication affected. Users of Lantus and Insuman insulin won’t be affected. Separate vials (non-insulin pens) of Apidra have not been affected either and will continue to be available.
You may be required to switch insulin. Your doctor will be able to prescribe a suitable alternative. Most people should be able to switch without problems. In rare cases, where Apidra has been found to be the only suitable insulin, people are advised to speak with their GP about the issue.
Sanofi Aventis have set up a 24 hour support line, 0800 035 25 25, to answer questions and provide information about the supply shortages.

Get our free newsletters

Stay up to date with the latest news, research and breakthroughs.

You May Also Like

Twice daily dairy intakes could reduce type 2 diabetes risk

Eating cheese, yoghurt or eggs twice a day could help lower the…

Top diabetes professor drafts risk assessment document for frontline COVID-19 staff

The health and wellbeing of frontline NHS staff has been prioritised among…

Public Health England considers low carb approach for type 2 diabetes

The low carb approach is being considered by the government to be…