Let's take a minute to talk about your medication.  

This is a Solostar pen and it contains Apidra insulin. Apidra treats diabetes. It works quickly to lower blood sugar levels. 

Apidra Solostar is a disposable, prefilled pen that is used to inject Apidra under the skin. You should use it exactly as your doctor tells you to. You should give each injection within 15 minutes before a meal, or within 20 minutes after starting a meal.    

Your doctor will teach you how to use the Apidra Solostar pen. You should read the full 'Instructions for Use'. If you still have questions, your doctor or pharmacist can help. 

Before each dose, you should remember to do these two things:
- check your blood sugar 
- and, read the label on the PEN to make sure you are using the correct insulin.

Most people tolerate Apidra well. Common side effects include weight gain and mild reactions at the injection site, like redness, swelling or itching. Over time, Apidra can cause the skin to have lumps or scar tissue. You can reduce these skin problems by rotating injection sites.

As with any medicine, more serious side effects could occur. With Apidra, these include an allergic reaction, low potassium, and low blood sugar. You should read the Patient Information sheet to know which symptoms to watch for. Also, you should make a plan with your doctor to manage blood sugar levels when they are low or high. 

You should check with your doctor before you take new medicines, before you drink alcohol, and before you travel. Also, you should always call your doctor if you become sick or stressed, and if you have changes to your diet, weight or exercise level.

For best results with Apidra Solostar, ask about helpful support services that are available.