DISCONTINUATION OF NOVOLIN® L (Lente®, Novo Nordisk) INSULIN
July 2003
Dear Healthcare Professional:
We wish to inform you that Novo Nordisk will be discontinuing Novolin® L (Lente®, human insulin zinc suspension [rDNA origin]).
Under current order and consumption levels, retail pharmacies will deplete their supplies of Novolin® L by approximately October 1, 2003.
The following treatment options should be considered:
· Lente® insulin, which is available from another manufacturer as Humulin® L.
· NPH, Ultralente®, or Lantus® (insulin glargine) are other options for basal insulin replacement. There is a difference in the time of action profile (insulin absorption and action) of these insulin preparations, which should be considered, when switching patients from Lente® insulin to other insulin formulations.
Any change in insulin therapy should be made cautiously and under medical supervision.
If you require further information, please contact our Information Hotline: 1-800-727-6500, Monday through Friday, between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. EST.
Sincerely,
Olga M. Santiago, M.D.
Medical Director
Novolin, Lente and Ultralente are registered trademarks of Novo Nordisk A/S
Humulin is a registered trademark of Eli Lilly and Company
Lantus is a registered trademark of Aventis Pharmaceuticals, Inc.