If you or someone you know has diabetes, you must have already heard of insulin aspart. It is a kind of fast-acting insulin used to improve blood sugar regulation in Type 1 and Type 2 diabetics. Insulin aspart is often taken before meals in conjunction with another long-acting insulin.

Fiasp and Novolog are two of the most well-known insulin aspart solutions on the market. Here, we will take a closer look at both of these options to understand their differences. But first, let’s get to know some of the fundamentals.

Why Are Insulin Aspart Solutions Used?

You can think of insulin aspart as a synthetic version of the insulin produced by your body. It acts as a substitute for the body’s natural insulin, transporting sugar from your bloodstream to other tissues. In addition, it stops the liver from producing excess sugar.

In diabetes, the body does not produce enough insulin to balance the amount of sugar present in the blood. Consequently, the blood glucose levels remain high, increasing the risk of stroke, heart failure, kidney complications, and nerve problems. Insulin aspart is an excellent way to manage your diabetes and general well-being.

Fiasp Vs. Novolog: How Are They Different?

You can use both Fiasp and Novolog to improve your glycemic regulation. So, what is the difference between them? Let’s take a look.

Fiasp – An Overview

Fiasp is one of the newest fast-acting insulin aspart solutions on the market. What makes this product one-of-a-kind is an ingredient known as niacinamide, which accelerates insulin absorption in the body. According to the company, the best time to take Fiasp is 20 minutes after starting your meal.

How Does It Work?

Fiasp resembles the physiological mechanism of natural insulin. As a result, it does not cause sudden blood sugar fluctuations after meals and enters the system more rapidly.

Another vital element of Fiasp is L-Arginine, which helps to stabilize the formula. After Fiasp peaks within your bloodstream, it allows the medication to work consistently and efficiently. The cumulative time of action for this drug is 4 hours, although it starts functioning within 20 minutes of administration. Fiasp reaches its peak between 30 to 60 minutes after ingestion.

Fiasp will lower your blood glucose level in 15 to 20 minutes, depending on the dosage. It returns to the baseline after 5 to 7 hours, reducing the blood sugar content.

Novolog – An Overview

Novolog is a fast-acting insulin aspart solution recommended to diabetic adults and children above the age of two. For improved results, this medicine is often combined with another long-acting insulin.

The chemical composition of this substance is identical to that of human insulin. However, Novolog has aspartic acid instead of proline in its chemical structure. The medicine is FDA-approved and can be used in patients with gestational diabetes, as well as Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes.

For the best results, take Novolog 5 to 10 minutes before eating.

How Does It Work?

Novolog starts working within 15 minutes of taking it and peaks after an hour. As a result, it effectively reduces blood glucose levels in both adults and children. The drug’s effects last for about 2 to 4 hours in total.

Novolog can be injected under the skin or directly into your veins by a medical practitioner. The most effective time for the medicine to reduce blood sugar is 1 to 3 hours after administration. However, it is recommended to have your meals immediately after injecting the medication. Additionally, you may have to adjust your overall insulin dosage when using Novolog.

Dosage  

The dosage of Fiasp depends on your glycemic control goal, metabolic requirements, and blood sugar levels. In addition, if you’re transitioning from another type of insulin or physical change, your dose will need to be adjusted.

In the case of Novolog, the doctor may adjust the dose after monitoring the glucose levels in blood and urine. Also, the dosage will change if the patient has had a severe illness or altered their lifestyle.

Drug Interaction

Some of the drugs that interact with Fiasp and affect its action are:

  • Angiotensin II receptor blocking agents
  • ACE inhibitors
  • Antidiabetic agents
  • Fibrates
  • Fluoxetine
  • Monoamine oxidase inhibitors
  • Pramlintide
  • Disopyramide
  • Pentoxifylline
  • Salicylates

Interactions between Fiasp and these drugs can have a detrimental effect on your health. Therefore, talk to your doctor before using Fiasp if you are on any of these medications.

The drugs that interact with Novolog are:

  • Guanethidine
  • Albuterol
  • Beta-blockers
  • Reserpine
  • Clonidine

Moreover, let your doctor know if you are taking any prescription drugs. These include vitamins, minerals, and any herbal medicines.

Side Effects

The common side effects of Fiasp include the following:

  • Hypoglycemia
  • Infections in the upper respiratory tract
  • Allergies
  • Sudden weight gain
  • Nausea
  • Diarrhea
  • Infections on the site of injection
  • Blocked nasal passage
  • Infection in the urinary tract

Some side effects of Novolog are:

  • Abnormal sweating
  • Headache
  • Weakness
  • Hunger pangs
  • Irregular or fast heartbeat
  • Convulsions
  • Fatigue and drowsiness
  • Trouble focusing
  • Muscle cramps
  • Infection or redness in the injection sites

Consult your physician immediately if you experience any of these side effects.

Precautions

Here are some basic precautions that are similar for both Fiasp and Novolog:

  • Do not use these medications if you have hypoglycemia
  • Avoid using these products if you are allergic to any of their ingredients
  • If you are breastfeeding, pregnant, or planning to conceive, talk to your doctor before using these medications
  • Consult your physician about any other medications you use
  • Inform your doctor if you suffer from any kidney or liver ailments or if you have low potassium blood levels

Storage Conditions

Both Fiasp and Novolog have standard storage requirements and conditions. You must keep these products refrigerated between 36 and 46 degrees Fahrenheit when you are not using them. Moreover, avoid exposing the materials to bright light or high temperatures.

Do not draw the drugs in a syringe to be used later. Instead, try to use them while they have a colorless and translucent appearance.

Conclusion

Both Fiasp and Novolog are excellent drugs that have helped many people control their blood sugar levels. However, you should always follow proper medical advice while using insulin aspart solutions. Also, make sure you consult a doctor about any pre-existing conditions, disorders, and nutritional or lifestyle modifications.

It is important to discuss your health concerns with your doctor since liver or heart conditions can change how insulin works in your body. You should also monitor your blood sugar levels before taking Fiasp or Novolog and avoid skipping any doses.