Fiasp is unavailable

[SalRead1]

I put in for a repeat prescription for Fiasp vials a few days ago only to learn from the online pharmacy that they are out of stock and not only have been unable to source any but their suppliers can’t say when it might be available again. I was originally on Fiasp, then changed to Lyumjev and back again as it wasn’t agreeing with me particularly. So, my question is now what do I do? I am using the Omnipod 5 pump, just to be clear. Does anyone have any experience of other fast acting insulin that they might recommend? Thanks

 

[EllieM]

Can you use cartridges to fill your pump? I use them for my tslim...

Otherwise I assume you don't like humalog or novorapid? Humalog is fine for me.

 

[SalRead1]

Thanks for your suggestions. I have previously tried experimenting with using cartridges but it was all rather messy - lack of skill or practice? In any case, they aren’t a long term solution. I’ve never tried Humalog but note that it needs to be “injected” between 15 and 20 minutes before a meal, as does Novorapid. Fiasp and Lyumjev require only 5 minutes which suits me better. Not that I might have much choice, hence the reason for asking for thoughts now. I have tried phoning my consultant but his secretary’s answerphone box is full. I’ve also tried my diabetes nurse and left a message there. This forum works way better than my GP practice as you all have masses of experience!

 

[Hopeful34]

Fiasp flextouch pens and vials are out of stock in some areas, and supplies not expected until January 2025. Maybe try ringing other chemists to see if they have any in stock or can get it, as they may use different suppliers to you regular chemist.

 

[CheeseSeaker]

Thanks for your suggestions. I have previously tried experimenting with using cartridges but it was all rather messy - lack of skill or practice? In any case, they aren’t a long term solution. I’ve never tried Humalog but note that it needs to be “injected” between 15 and 20 minutes before a meal, as does Novorapid. Fiasp and Lyumjev require only 5 minutes which suits me better. Not that I might have much choice, hence the reason for asking for thoughts now. I have tried phoning my consultant but his secretary’s answerphone box is full. I’ve also tried my diabetes nurse and left a message there. This forum works way better than my GP practice as you all have masses of experience!

Novorapid is that base insulin used for Fiasp - its classified as 'Fast Acting' where as Fiasp is 'Ultra-Fast' (Novorapis was around a long time ago so was fast in its day.

Its slow in comparison with Fiasp - I used to inject Novorapid at least 20-30 minutes before eating.

Lyumjev is the alternative to Fiasp - based on Humalog (with stuff in) so it works as fast as Fiasp. That would be the logical choice if you can't get Fiasp. Can be uncomfortable till you get used to the 'additive' but works better for me than Fiasp (25+ years on Novorapid I think)

Insulin profile is about the same as Fiasp (speed, qty etc) but you may need to tweak amounts.

 

[SalRead1]

Thanks again for everyone’s help here. I phoned round all the local pharmacies and eventually found one that did have some Fiasp vials in stock . My diabetes nurse even phoned the manufacturers who expressed surprise that I was having difficulty in getting hold of Fiasp vials because, as far as they knew, there were only supply issues with the cartridges and pens. I was prepared to go back to Lyumjev if necessary as I like the short wait time, but fortunately I don’t have to right now. I guess Hopeful 34 is right when saying that stock issues are localised. Let’s hope they can sort this way before January - that seems like a long delay time.