provider image
Welcome! You’re in GoodRx for healthcare professionals. Now, you’ll enjoy a streamlined experience created specifically for healthcare professionals.
Skip to main content
Apidra Coupon - Apidra 5 solostar pens of 3ml carton

Apidra

insulin glulisine
Used for Diabetes Type 2, Diabetes Type 1
Used for Diabetes Type 2, Diabetes Type 1

Insulin glulisine is a rapid-acting insulin that's available as a vial (Apidra) and a pre-filled pen (Apidra Solostar). It's used to control blood sugar from meals for people with either Type 1 diabetes (T1D) or Type 2 diabetes (T2D). Apidra (insulin glulisine) is given under the skin as either a quick injection or continuously through an insulin pump. It can also be given as an injection through the veins (IV) for people in the hospital. Side effects include low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) and common cold symptoms.

Last reviewed on December 2, 2024
basics-icon

What is Apidra (insulin glulisine)?

What is Apidra (insulin glulisine) used for?

How Apidra (insulin glulisine) works

Apidra (insulin glulisine) is an insulin. Insulin is a natural hormone your body makes to control blood sugar levels. It helps your body absorb and store sugar from the bloodstream after a meal. Insulin also stops your liver from making glucose (sugar). But people with diabetes can't make insulin, don't make enough insulin, or their body doesn't respond to insulin as it should.

Apidra (insulin glulisine) is a rapid-acting insulin. It's injected within 15 minutes before, or 20 minutes after, a meal to prevent blood sugar levels from rising too high. It can also be used with the appropriate insulin pump.

Are you looking for information on insulin glargine (Lantus) instead?

Drug Facts

Common BrandsApidra, Apidra SoloStar
Drug ClassInsulin
Controlled Substance ClassificationNot a controlled medication
Generic StatusNo lower-cost generic available
AvailabilityPrescription only

More on Apidra (insulin glulisine) essentials

coupon-save-icon

Get your GoodRx coupon

Avg retail price
$385.18(save 75.76%)
GoodRx discount
$93.37
See prices
basics-icon

What are the side effects of Apidra (insulin glulisine)?

The following side effects may get better over time as your body gets used to the medication. Let your healthcare provider know immediately if you continue to experience these symptoms or if they worsen over time.

Common Side Effects

Type 1 diabetesType 2 diabetes
  • Upper respiratory tract infection (up to 11%)
  • Common cold (8%)
  • Swelling in the hands, ankles, or legs (8%)
  • Flu (6%)
  • Joint pain (6%)

Other Side Effects

  • Weight gain
  • Injection/infusion site reaction (such as pain, swelling, redness, itching)

Serious Side Effects

Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following.
  • Severely low blood sugar: dizziness, shakiness, feeling confused, feeling irritable or anxious, feeling faint, sweating, extreme hunger, not able to think clearly
  • Ketoacidosis (high ketone levels in the blood): nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, tiredness, feeling very thirsty, dry mouth, fruity breath, trouble breathing
  • Severely low potassium levels: weakness, muscle cramps or twitches, constipation, abnormal heartbeat, tiredness, trouble breathing
  • Severe allergic reactions: rash; hives; swelling of face, tongue, and throat; trouble breathing

Source: DailyMed

The following side effects have also been reported

Along with its needed effects, a medicine may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur:

More common

Anxiety

blurred vision

body aches or pain

chills

cold sweats

confusion

cool, pale skin

cough

depression

difficulty with breathing

dizziness

ear congestion

fast heartbeat

headache

increased hunger

loss of consciousness

loss of voice

nightmares

runny or stuffy nose

seizures

shakiness

slurred speech

sneezing

sore throat

unusual tiredness or weakness

Less common

Pounding in the ears

slow heartbeat

Incidence not known

Bloating or swelling of face, arms, hands, lower legs, or feet

difficulty with swallowing

dizziness, faintness, or lightheadedness when getting up suddenly from a lying or sitting position

fast, pounding, or irregular heartbeat or pulse

hives, itching, skin rash

increased sweating

puffiness or swelling of the eyelids or around the eyes, face, lips or tongue

rapid weight gain

tightness in the chest

tingling of the hands or feet

unusual weight gain or loss

Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects. Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:

More common

Difficulty with moving

dry, red, hot, or irritated skin

ear congestion

loss of voice

muscle aches

muscle pain or stiffness

pain in the joints

Less common

Bleeding, blistering, burning, coldness, discoloration of the skin, feeling of pressure, hives, infection, inflammation, itching, lumps, numbness, pain, rash, redness, scarring, soreness, stinging, swelling, tenderness, tingling, ulceration, or warmth at the injection site

redistribution or accumulation of body fat

Other side effects not listed may also occur in some patients. If you notice any other effects, check with your healthcare professional.

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

pros-and-cons

Pros and cons of Apidra (insulin glulisine)

thumbs-up

Pros

Works within 15 minutes to lower blood sugar

Available as a prefilled pen, which might be easier to use than the vial

Can be used with some insulin pumps

Can be mixed with NPH insulin (e.g., Novolin N), if instructed by your care team

thumbs-down

Cons

Raises risk of dangerously low blood sugar levels

Given as an injection

Might need to inject multiple times a day

Might cause weight gain

pharmacist-tips

Pharmacist tips for Apidra (insulin glulisine)

pharmacist
  • Apidra (insulin glulisine) is meant to quickly lower blood sugar from food. Don't use Apidra (insulin glulisine) if you plan to skip a meal unless your prescriber specifically told you to do so. Using Apidra (insulin glulisine) without a meal raises your risk for hypoglycemia (dangerously low blood sugar), which can be life-threatening.

    • Ask your prescriber how often you should check your blood sugar levels during the day as you use Apidra (insulin glulisine). Use a blood sugar log to help keep track of your readings. This can help make sure you're on the right dose of Apidra (insulin glulisine) or if dose adjustments are needed.

      • Apidra (insulin glulisine) can only be mixed with NPH insulin (Novolin N or Humalin N) within the same syringe when giving it as an injection under the skin. Make sure to draw up Apidra (insulin glulisine) first, then inject immediately after mixing. Don't mix Apidra (insulin glulisine) with any other types of insulin.

        • Never share Apidra (insulin glulisine) pens and vials, or insulin supplies with anyone else. Doing so puts you and others at risk of spreading germs and getting serious infections.

          Tips on how to use Apidra (insulin glulisine):

          • Your care team will train you to administer Apidra (insulin glulisine). Make sure you know how to use the medication to avoid accidentally hurting yourself or wasting the medication. Read the instructions for use for either the vial or the pen. Contact a member of your care team if you have any questions.

            • Before injecting Apidra (insulin glulisine), make sure the solution is clear and colorless without any particles (solid chunks). Otherwise, don't inject Apidra (insulin glulisine) and ask your prescriber or pharmacist if it's possible to get a replacement.

              • For under-the-skin injections: Inject Apidra (insulin glulisine) within 15 minutes before a meal or within 20 minutes after a meal. It should be injected under the skin (subcutaneously) of your stomach area, thighs, or upper arms. Be sure to rotate injection sites to prevent hard lumps from forming in your skin.

                • For continuous infusion pumps: Be sure to infuse into an area of the body recommended by the manufacturer of the pump. Rotate injection sites to prevent skin irritation. Change the medication in the pump at least every 2 days or according to the user manual, whichever is shorter. Also, replace any Apidra (insulin glulisine) in the pump that's been exposed to temperatures above 98.6°F.

                  • After injecting Apidra (insulin glulisine), throw the needle or syringe away in a sharps container or something made of heavy-duty plastic (e.g., empty milk carton, laundry detergent bottle). This helps lower the risk of needle-stick injuries. Don't throw away needles or syringes in your trash can. Visit the FDA's website for guidance on how to throw away your sharps container safely in your specific state.

                    faqs

                    Frequently asked questions about Apidra (insulin glulisine)

                    How long does Apidra (insulin glulisine) take to work?
                    Apidra (insulin glulisine) is a rapid-acting (or fast-acting) insulin. It starts to work about 15 minutes after the injection. If you're using Apidra (insulin glulisine) as meal-time insulin, you should give the injection within 15 minutes before a meal or within 20 minutes after a starting a meal.
                    Is Apidra (insulin glulisine) given before or after meals?
                    If your diabetes care team prescribes Apidra (insulin glulisine) as a meal-time insulin, you can inject it either within 15 minutes before a meal or within 20 minutes after starting a meal. However, your care team will likely advise you to skip your mealtime dose of Apidra (insulin glulisine) if you plan to skip a meal, as this is important to prevent your blood sugar levels from dropping to a dangerously low level.
                    Can Apidra (insulin glulisine) be used in an insulin pump?
                    Yes, some insulin pumps are compatible with Apidra (insulin glulisine). You can check the manufacturer's website or manual to see if you can use Apidra (insulin glulisine) with a particular pump. Talk to your diabetes specialist if you have more questions about infusing insulin through a pump.
                    Does Apidra (insulin glulisine) cause weight gain?
                    Yes, weight gain can be a side effect of any insulin, including Apidra (insulin glulisine). This happens because insulin helps lower your blood sugar by allowing cells to absorb sugar from your bloodstream. When your body absorbs this sugar, it can store it as fat, which might lead to weight gain. To help prevent weight gain while using Apidra (insulin glulisine), try to stick to a balanced diet that’s low in sugar and fat, and make sure to get regular exercise. These habits can help manage your body weight and help Apidra (insulin glulisine) work better to control your blood sugar levels. Contact your care team if you're concerned about any weight gain while you're taking this medication.
                    How many units of Apidra (insulin glulisine) should I take?
                    Your diabetes care team will help you figure out the units of Apidra (insulin glulisine) needed to keep your blood sugar levels within a safe range. Your dose depends on different factors, such as whether you have T1D or T2D, your diet, and what other medications you're taking. Your care team might also adjust your dose based on changes in your diet or lifestyle. Contact your diabetes specialist if you're not sure how much Apidra (insulin glulisine) you should be using.
                    Does Apidra (insulin glulisine) need to be refrigerated?
                    You can store unopened vials and unopened pens of Apidra (insulin glulisine) in the refrigerator until the expiration date on the box, or at room temperature for up to 28 days. For opened vials of Apidra (insulin glulisine) that you're currently using, you can store it at room temperature or in the refrigerator up to 28 days. For opened pens of Apidra (insulin glulisine) that you're currently using, it's fine to store it at room temperature for 28 days, don't put it back in the refrigerator.
                    GoodRxEducationalIcon

                    How to save using GoodRx

                    Compare Prices
                    1. Compare PricesSpecify your dosage and quantity to find out exactly how much you can save.
                    Select your free coupon
                    2. Select your free couponYou can use the displayed coupon, or compare prices at other pharmacies near you.
                    Show coupon to your pharmacist
                    3. Show coupon to your pharmacistPresent your printed or electronic coupon when you pick up your prescription.
                    Get free couponLearn more
                    warings-icon

                    What are the risks and warnings for Apidra (insulin glulisine)?

                    Apidra (insulin glulisine) can cause some serious health issues. This risk may be even higher for certain groups. If this worries you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about other options.

                    risk-warning

                    Spread of infections from sharing injection supplies

                    Never share Apidra (insulin glulisine) pens with anyone, even if you use a new needle. Also, never share Apidra (insulin glulisine) vials, syringes, or needles with anyone else. Sharing insulin or insulin supplies with others can raise the risk of spreading dangerous infections to other people and yourself.

                    risk-warning

                    Risk of high and low blood sugar levels

                    • Risk factors: Changes in diet and exercise | Switching to Apidra (insulin glulisine) from a different type of insulin | Drinking alcohol | Taking other medications for diabetes together with Apidra (insulin glulisine) | Liver or kidney problems

                      Changing your insulin or insulin routine, such as where you inject Apidra (insulin glulisine) or switching to a different brand of insulin, can affect how your body responds to insulin. This can lead to either high or low blood sugar levels. In addition, injecting Apidra (insulin glulisine) repeatedly into skin areas that shows signs of lipodystrophy, such as pitting or thickened skin, can also result in high blood sugar levels.

                      Don't make changes to your Apidra (insulin glulisine) dose or routine without first checking in with your diabetes care team. Make sure to avoid injecting into skin areas that show signs of lipodystrophy. If your care team instructs you to make any changes to your insulin routine, they'll also ask you to check your blood sugar levels more often to see how the changes affect your blood sugar levels.

                      risk-warning

                      Dangerously low blood sugar levels (hypoglycemia)

                      • Risk factors: Changes in diet and exercise | Drinking alcohol | Taking other medications for diabetes together with Apidra (insulin glulisine) | Liver or kidney problems | Not using Apidra (insulin glulisine) as directed

                        Using Apidra (insulin glulisine) alone or together with other medications that lower blood sugar can lead to hypoglycemia, which is dangerously low blood sugar levels. If not treated in time, it can be life-threatening.

                        Check your blood sugar level regularly to make sure it's within a safe range. If your diabetes care team instructs you to mix different insulins together, read the label of the insulins carefully to make sure you're using the right products. If you make any changes to your diet or meal patterns, other medications, or how much you exercise, let your care team know because they might need to adjust your dose of Apidra (insulin glulisine).

                        Be familiar with symptoms of hypoglycemia, such as feeling shaky, being nervous or anxious, sweating or body chills, and excessive hunger. Keep fast-acting sugars, such as glucose tablets, with you at all times so you can treat an episode of hypoglycemia. If your blood sugar levels don't improve even after you take fast-acting sugars, get medical help right away.

                        risk-warning

                        Allergic reaction

                        In some rare cases, Apidra (insulin glulisine) can cause an allergic reaction. Get medical help right away if you experience trouble breathing, swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat, or a rash.

                        risk-warning

                        Low blood potassium levels

                        • Risk factors: Taking other medications that lower potassium levels

                          Apidra (insulin glulisine) can lower the levels of potassium in your blood, which can be dangerous. You're at higher risk if you're already taking medications that lower your potassium, like certain diuretics (water pills). Your prescriber will check your potassium levels regularly and might give you medications to keep your potassium in the normal range. Tell your prescriber if you have symptoms of low potassium, such as weakness, muscle cramps or twitches, nausea, vomiting, or abnormal heartbeats.

                          risk-warning

                          Swelling from fluid buildup and risk of heart failure

                          • Risk factors: Taking glitazones together with Apidra (insulin glulisine) | History of heart failure

                            Taking Apidra (insulin glulisine) with medications called glitazones (also known as thiazolidinediones), like pioglitazone (Actos), can cause your body to hold onto fluid. This can worsen or lead to heart failure. Let your prescriber know if you've noticed sudden weight gain or if you have symptoms of heart failure, such as trouble breathing, tiredness, or headache. They might need to make changes to your blood sugar medications.

                            risk-warning

                            Dangerously high blood sugar levels or buildup of ketones (for people who use insulin pump)

                            • Risk factors: Insulin pump not working properly

                              If you're using an insulin pump to inject Apidra (insulin glulisine), check that your insulin isn't expired and that your pump is working and set to the proper settings. When the pump isn't working properly, you're at risk of having extremely high blood sugar levels or a serious complication of diabetes called ketoacidosis. Call your prescriber right away if you can't fix your pump quickly. Your prescriber might recommend that you inject Apidra (insulin glulisine) in other ways in the meantime. Seek medical help if you have symptoms of ketoacidosis, such as tiredness, fruity-smelling breath, or vomiting.

                              dosage

                              Apidra (insulin glulisine) dosage forms

                              The average cost for 1 carton of 5 solostar pens of 3ml of Apidra (insulin glulisine) is $173.39 with a free GoodRx coupon. This is 54.99% off the average retail price of $385.18.
                              carton
                              Carton
                              DosageQuantityPrice as low asPrice per unit
                              5 solostar pens of 3ml1 carton$173.39$173.39
                              solostar pen
                              Solostar pen
                              DosageQuantityPrice as low asPrice per unit
                              3ml of 100 units/ml5 solostar pens$173.39$34.68
                              vial
                              Vial
                              DosageQuantityPrice as low asPrice per unit
                              10ml of 100 units/ml1 vial$93.37$93.37

                              Typical dosing for Apidra (insulin glulisine)

                              Your diabetes care team will determine your dose of Apidra (insulin glulisine) based on different factors, such as your blood sugar level and what other medications you're taking.

                              • Injections under the skin: Inject Apidra (insulin glulisine) under the skin in the stomach, thigh, or upper arm, within 15 minutes before a meal or within 20 minutes right after a meal.

                              • Continuous insulin pumps: Use the insulin pump according to your prescriber's instructions. Follow the directions from your insulin pump manufacturer to set up and use the pump.

                              • Injections through the vein: Apidra (insulin glulisine) can be given as an injection into the vein by a healthcare professional (HCP), typically in a hospital setting.

                              interactions

                              Interactions between Apidra (insulin glulisine) and other drugs

                              Apidra (insulin glulisine) may interact with certain medications or supplements. Always let your doctor and pharmacist know about any other medications or supplements (including prescribed and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and dietary or herbal supplements) that you are currently taking. The list below does not include all possible drug interactions with Apidra (insulin glulisine). Please note that only the generic name of each medication is listed below.

                              Using this medicine with any of the following medicines is usually not recommended, but may be required in some cases. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.

                              Using this medicine with any of the following medicines may cause an increased risk of certain side effects, but using both drugs may be the best treatment for you. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.

                              drug-cost

                              How much does Apidra (insulin glulisine) cost?

                              To access savings, use a GoodRx coupon and pay just a fraction of the retail price.View prices & coupons
                              contraindications-icon

                              Apidra (insulin glulisine) contraindications

                              Contraindications are specific health conditions or situations in which a person should not take a medication due to safety concerns. If you have any of the following conditions or if any of the following apply to you, let your healthcare provider know because Apidra (insulin glulisine) will not be safe for you to take.
                              • Currently experiencing low blood sugar (hypoglycemia)

                              alternatives

                              What are alternatives to Apidra (insulin glulisine)?

                              There are a number of medications that your doctor can prescribe in place of Apidra (insulin glulisine). Compare a few possible alternatives below.
                              Apidra (insulin glulisine)
                              Used for:
                              $93.37 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                              Used for:
                              $32.16 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                              Used for:
                              $79.31 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                              latest news

                              What is the latest news about Apidra (insulin glulisine)?

                              images

                              Apidra (insulin glulisine) images

                              colorless - Apidra SoloStar Prefilled Pen 100unit / mL Solution for Injection
                              This medicine is Colorless Carton.colorless - Apidra SoloStar Prefilled Pen 100unit / mL Solution for Injection

                              Get savings updates for Apidra (insulin glulisine)

                              Receive price alerts, news, and other messages from GoodRx about Apidra (insulin glulisine) and other healthcare topics and relevant savings offers.

                              By signing up, I agree to GoodRx's Terms and Privacy Policy, and to receive marketing messages from GoodRx.

                              References

                              Best studies we found

                              Apidra. (n.d.). How to use.

                              Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2024). Treatment of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia).

                              Food and Drug Administration. (2021). Safely using sharps (needles and syringes) at home, at work and on travel.

                              View All References (4)

                              Sanofi-aventis U.S. LLC. (2023). APIDRA- insulin glulisine injection, solution; APIDRA SOLOSTAR- insulin glulisine injection, solution. DailyMed.

                              Sanofi-aventis U.S. LLC. (2023). Blood Sugar Tracker.

                              Sharabi, K., et al. (2016). Molecular Pathophysiology of Hepatic Glucose Production. Molecular Aspects of Medicine.

                              Veltri, K. T., et al. (2015). Medication-Induced Hypokalemia. Pharmacy and Therapeutics.

                              GoodRx Health has strict sourcing policies and relies on primary sources such as medical organizations, governmental agencies, academic institutions, and peer-reviewed scientific journals. Learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate, thorough, and unbiased by reading our editorial guidelines.
                              Was this page helpful?

                              Browse medications

                              View All

                              Research prescriptions and over-the-counter medications from A to Z, compare drug prices, and start saving.