Lyumjev KwikPen Classification
Lyumjev (insulin lispro-aabc) KwikPen is an ultra-rapid-acting prandial insulin analog designed for mealtime glucose control. 1
Insulin Type and Pharmacologic Category
Lyumjev is classified as an ultra-rapid-acting insulin analog, representing an enhanced formulation of insulin lispro with accelerated pharmacokinetics compared to standard rapid-acting insulin analogs. 2, 3
The medication contains insulin lispro-aabc (the "-aabc" designation indicates it is a biosimilar formulation with specific excipients that accelerate absorption). 1
It functions as a prandial (mealtime) insulin, not a basal insulin, and is specifically designed to control postprandial glucose excursions. 2, 4
Pharmacokinetic Profile
Onset of action: Faster than standard rapid-acting analogs, with improved early insulin exposure. 3, 5
Peak effect: Earlier and higher peak compared to standard insulin lispro (1-2 hours for standard lispro). 4, 6
Duration: Shorter duration of action (3-4 hours) compared to regular human insulin. 4
The ultra-rapid formulation provides better control of postprandial glucose peaks than standard rapid-acting insulin analogs. 2, 3, 5
Available Formulations
U-100 formulation (100 units/mL): Available in KwikPen, Junior KwikPen, and Tempo Pen prefilled devices. 1
U-200 formulation (200 units/mL): Available in KwikPen for patients requiring larger insulin doses, with identical pharmacokinetics to U-100. 4, 1
Also available as vials and cartridges for use in compatible insulin delivery devices. 1
Clinical Context
Lyumjev is administered within 15 minutes or less before meals (or immediately before eating), which is the standard timing for rapid-acting insulin analogs. 4
It is used in both type 1 and type 2 diabetes as part of basal-bolus regimens or in insulin pump therapy. 2, 5, 7
Recent evidence demonstrates that Lyumjev provides superior postprandial glucose control compared to standard insulin lispro when used in hybrid closed-loop systems, with significant reductions in 2-hour and 4-hour postprandial glucose excursions. 5