Rapid-acting insulin (antidiabetic)
Last reviewed June 2026
Who is this for?
Insulin aspart (sold as NovoRapid FlexPen in Nigeria) is a fast-acting insulin injection that helps move sugar from your blood into your body's cells for energy, working just like the natural insulin your body is supposed to make.
Binds to insulin receptors on muscle, adipose, and hepatic cells, promoting glucose uptake and utilization while inhibiting hepatic glucose production and lipolysis, thereby lowering blood glucose levels. The rapid onset of action allows postprandial (mealtime) glycemic control in both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes mellitus.
Prescription Required
You need a doctor's prescription to buy this drug.
Explore this drug
Inject it under the skin (belly, thigh, or upper arm) right before eating or within 20 minutes after starting your meal. Your doctor will tell you exactly how many units to inject based on your blood sugar readings and what you eat. Never inject it into a vein or muscle, and rotate your injection sites to avoid lumps under the skin.
If you miss your dose before a meal, check your blood sugar level and take the dose with your next meal if needed. Do not take a double dose to make up for the one you missed. If you are unsure, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Always buy NovoRapid from a reputable pharmacy with proper cold storage — insulin that has been exposed to heat or sunlight may not work properly. Learn to recognize signs of low blood sugar (shaking, sweating, confusion) and always carry sugar, glucose sweets, or a sugary drink with you. Do not share your insulin pen with anyone — this can spread infections like HIV and hepatitis.
Some malaria or infection drugs, blood pressure medications (like beta-blockers such as atenolol), and diabetes tablets (like metformin or glimepiride) can increase or hide the effects of low blood sugar. Alcohol (beer, palm wine, ogogoro) can dangerously lower your blood sugar when combined with insulin — avoid drinking or drink very carefully. Always tell your doctor about every medication you are taking.
Check your specific combination
Is it safe to take Insulin with your other drugs?
Insulin aspart can be used during pregnancy and breastfeeding, but your doctor must closely monitor and adjust your dose throughout — never change your dose on your own.
Before opening, store the FlexPen in a refrigerator (2–8°C) — not in the freezer. In Nigeria's hot weather, once you start using a pen, keep it at room temperature (below 30°C) for up to 28 days — do not refrigerate it again. Keep it away from direct sunlight and heat, and always keep out of reach of children. Throw away the pen after 28 days even if there is insulin left.
For information only — not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.
Names this drug is sold under — especially in Nigerian and West African pharmacies
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Counterfeit Drug Warning
Fake drugs are a serious problem in Nigeria. Always buy from a registered pharmacy. If the packaging looks different from what is described above, do not use it.