Mixtard 30 (Insulin Human)

Mixtard 30 is a human insulin formulation indicated for the management of hyperglycaemia in diabetes mellitus, providing both basal and rapid‑acting coverage.

• Type 1 diabetes mellitus: supplies both basal and mealtime insulin to achieve target glycaemic levels and reduce risk of ketoacidosis.
• Type 2 diabetes mellitus: adds exogenous insulin to improve glucose control when diet, exercise, and oral agents are inadequate.
• Hyperglycaemic crisis (e.g., diabetic ketoacidosis): can be used under medical supervision to rapidly lower plasma glucose while other therapies are initiated.

• Insulin human binds to insulin receptors on muscle, adipose and hepatic cells, activating the receptor tyrosine kinase pathway. This stimulates translocation of GLUT‑4 transporters, enhancing glucose uptake, promotes glycogen synthesis, and suppresses hepatic gluconeogenesis, thereby lowering circulating blood glucose concentrations.

Common Side Effects

• Hypoglycaemia: low blood sugar episodes, especially if meals are missed or dose is excessive.
• Injection site reactions: redness, swelling, or itching at the injection site.
• Weight gain: increased adipose tissue due to improved glucose utilization.
• Lipodystrophy: localized fat accumulation or loss with repeated injections.
• Edema: mild fluid retention, particularly in the lower extremities.
• Headache: transient mild headache after injection.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Severe hypoglycaemia leading to seizures or loss of consciousness.
• Anaphylactic reaction: hives, difficulty breathing, or swelling of the face.
• Insulin allergy: systemic rash or urticaria.
• Hypokalemia: low potassium levels, potentially causing cardiac arrhythmia.
• Insulin antibodies: may alter insulin action or cause immune complex reactions.

Before using Mixtard 30, patients should be aware of the following precautions:

• Blood glucose monitoring: check levels regularly to adjust dose appropriately.
• Dose adjustments: modify insulin dose when initiating, changing diet, or during illness.
• Renal impairment: use caution as reduced clearance may increase hypoglycaemia risk.
• Known hypersensitivity: avoid if allergic reactions to human insulin have occurred.
• Pregnancy category B: use only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus.
• Store at 2-8°C: keep refrigerated, protect from light, do not freeze or shake.

Mixtard 30 may interact with other medicines as follows:

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Sulfonylureas: combined effect can cause severe hypoglycaemia.
• Beta‑blockers: may mask typical hypoglycaemia symptoms such as tachycardia.
• Glucocorticoids: can reduce insulin effectiveness, requiring dose increase.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely):\n- ACE inhibitors: may enhance insulin sensitivity, increasing hypoglycaemia risk.

• Thiazide diuretics: can raise blood glucose, potentially necessitating higher insulin doses.
• Alcohol: may potentiate hypoglycaemia, especially with missed meals.