Apidra Side Effects

Generic name: insulin glulisine

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Feb 10, 2024.

Note: This document provides detailed information about Apidra.

Applies to insulin glulisine: parenteral injection Side Effects associated with insulin glulisine. Some dosage forms listed on this page may not apply specifically to the brand name Apidra.

Applies to insulin glulisine: parenteral injection.

Side effects include:

Hypoglycemia, systemic hypersensitivity, injection site reaction.

For healthcare professionals

Applies to insulin glulisine: injectable solution, subcutaneous solution.

General adverse events

The most common adverse reactions reported include hypoglycemia, allergic reactions, injection site reactions, lipodystrophy, pruritus, and rash.^[Ref]

Metabolic

• Common (1% to 10%): Hypoglycemia, hypoglycemic seizure
• Frequency not reported: Weight gain^[Ref]

Hypersensitivity

• Common (1% to 10%): Local hypersensitivity reactions (redness, swelling, and itching at injection site) Uncommon (0.1% to 1%): Systemic allergic reactions including urticaria, chest tightness, dyspnea, allergic dermatitis, and pruritus
• Frequency not reported: Anaphylaxis^[Ref]

In clinical trials of ups to 12 months duration, potential systemic allergic reactions were reported in 4.3% (79 of 1833) patients receiving insulin glulisine compared with 3.8% (58 of 1524) patients receiving comparator short-acting insulins. Permanent discontinuation occurred in 1 patient receiving insulin glulisine.^[Ref]

Local

• Common (1% to 10%): Infusion site reactions
• Very rare (less than 0.01%): Catheter occlusions^[Ref]

Among patients using continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion pumps, the rates of catheter occlusions and infusion site reactions were similar with insulin glulisine compared with insulin aspart.^[Ref]

Cardiovascular

• Common (1% to 10%): Peripheral edema, hypertension^[Ref]

Gastrointestinal

• Common (1% to 10%): Diarrhea, pharyngitis, vomiting, nausea^[Ref]

Dermatologic

• Rare (less than 0.1%): Lipodystrophy^[Ref]

Immunologic

• Common (1% to 10%): Influenza^[Ref]

Respiratory

• Common (1% to 10%): Nasopharyngitis, upper respiratory tract infection, sinusitis, bronchitis^[Ref]

Musculoskeletal

• Common (1% to 10%): Arthralgia, back pain^[Ref]

Nervous system

• Common (1% to 10%): Headache^[Ref]

Genitourinary

• Common (1% to 10%): Urinary tract infection^[Ref]

See also:

Frequently asked questions

• What are the different types of insulin?

Further information

Apidra side effects can vary depending on the individual. Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Note: Medication side effects may be underreported. If you are experiencing side effects that are not listed, submit a report to the FDA by following this guide.

Medical Disclaimer