Insulin bottles (vials) and cartridges

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Insulin bottles (vials) and cartridges

When you prepare to take insulin, check the label on the bottle (vial) or cartridge for the:

• Expiration date of the insulin.
• Correct name and source of insulin (human or pig) prescribed for you.
• Correct type of insulin prescribed for you (rapid-, short-, intermediate-, or long-acting, or mixed).
• Correct concentration of insulin prescribed for you. (The most commonly used concentration is U-100, which contains 100 units of insulin per milliliter or cubic centimeter.) Sometimes insulin is produced in a less concentrated (diluted) form for babies. Make sure you give your baby the dilution your doctor prescribed.

Also, check the bottle or cartridge for cracks or chips. Look for changes in the appearance of the insulin that can indicate it will not work, such as:

• A coating of white crystals on the inside surface of the bottle.
• A grainy look or clumping or curdling of the insulin.
• Other changes in the insulin's clarity or color.

Credits

Last updated:	August 31, 2007
Author:	Paul Lehnert
Reviewed By:	Martin Gabica, MD - Family Medicine, Theresa O'Young, PharmD - Clinical Pharmacist
Editors:	Roya Camp, Terrina Vail