DESCRIPTION: Vetsulin VetPen Cartridge is an FDA-approved suspension of porcine insulin zinc. This medication is used to reduce the clinical signs of hyperglycemia in pets diagnosed with diabetes mellitus. Only for use with VetPen Needles and VetPen Cartridges, which are sold separately. This product ships cold.
Key Benefits:
Required dose for adequate diabetic symptom control, activity duration, and peak activity vary from one patient to the next. Peak activity in cats is typically between 1.5 to 8 hours, with activity duration varying between 8 and 12 hours. In dogs, Vetsulin is known to have two peaks in activity - the first around 4 hours, and the second around 11 hours. The duration of activity will vary, but is generally between 14 and 24 hours. Porcine insulin amino acids are similarly structured to those of canine insulin. This product is an intermediate-acting insulin.
Formulated For: Intended for cats and dogs.
How is Medication Given?
Administer only with 20 g, 12 mm VetPen Needles (#50990) and VetPens (#50992), which are sold separately. Before loading a cartridge, shake to obtain a uniformly milky and homogenous suspension. White particles or clumps may form. If these clumps or particles still exist after shaking, do not use this product. Strictly follow the detailed directions (included). Administer a subcutaneous injection 2 cm to 5 cm away from the dorsal midline. Alternate sides and vary from the mid-lumbar region to behind the scapulae. Follow your veterinarian's directions when using this product.
For use in cats:
Recommended initial dosage rate is 1 IU to 2 IU for each injection. Administer two injections each day (about 12 hours apart). If your cat is fed twice each day, administer at the same time as (or immediately following) meals. If your cat is fed freely, there is no need to change his or her feeding schedule. Cats should be re-evaluated regularly, and their dosage rates should be adjusted based on glucose curve values, urinalysis results, and clinical signs until glycemic control is achieved. Dosage adjustments might be needed if the cat develops a medical disorder, another endocrine disorder, neoplasia, inflammation, or a concurrent infection, or if there are changes with the cat's concomitant medication, body weight, or diet.
For use in dogs:
Recommended initial dosage rate is 0.5 IU to 2 IU for each pound of body weight. Administer each day. Administer at the same time as (or immediately following) meals. If insulin action duration is inadequate, two daily doses might be required. In this case, each dose should be 25% less than the previously-administered daily dose. This will aid in attaining an acceptable nadir. Dogs should be re-evaluated regularly, and their dosage rates should be adjusted based on glucose curve values, urinalysis results, and clinical signsuntil glycemic control is achieved. Dosage adjustments might be needed if the dog develops a medical disorder, another endocrine disorder, neoplasia, inflammation, or a concurrent infection, or if there are changes with the dog's concomitant medication, body weight, or diet.
What Results Can I Expect? Vetsulin is the only FDA-approved insulin made for pets with diabetes. It is an excellent choice for diabetic pets and their parents.
Dose and Administration: Cartridges are sold individually containing 40 units in each mL (2.7 mL).
Possible Side Effects:
Serious side effects can occur suddenly. The most common insulin-related side effect is low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), which can bring on symptoms like lethargy, incoordination, seizures, or coma. If your pet appears to be experiencing an adverse reaction or new medical condition, consult your veterinarian. Rarely, allergic reactions can occur. Pursue emergency treatment if you believe your pet is experiencing an allergic reaction, with signs like trouble breathing, hives, swollen lips, swollen tongue, or swollen face.
Precautions:
Keep away from children and animals. Do not administer to animals with systemic allergies to pork or pork products. Avoid eye contact. In case of accidental eye contact, flush the eye right away with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes. Exposure to this product can cause local or systemic allergic reactions in sensitized individuals. Not proven safe or effective for use in breeding, pregnant, or lactating dogs or cats, or in puppies or kittens.
Storage Recommendations: Refrigeration is required between 36-46 degrees F (2 degrees C and 8 degrees C). Do not freeze and avoid excessive heat. Protect from light. Store in an upright position. A loaded VetPen can be stored on its side.
In Case of Overdose: Contact the nearest emergency pet clinic immediately.
