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Humalog (Insulin Lispro)
What is a Generic Drug?
A generic drug is a copy of the brand-name drug with the same dosage, safety, strength, quality, consumption method, performance, and intended use. Before generics become available on the market, the generic company must prove it has the same active ingredients as the brand-name drug and works in the same way and in the same amount of time in the body.
The only differences between generics and their brand-name counterparts is that generics are less expensive and may look slightly different (eg. different shape or color), as trademarks laws prevent a generic from looking exactly like the brand-name drug.
Generics are less expensive because generic manufacturers don't have to invest large sums of money to develop a drug. When the brand-name patent expires, generic companies can manufacture a copy of the brand-name and sell it at a substantial discount.
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HUMALOG (Insulin lispro) is a prescription insulin product. Insulin is used to treat high blood sugar in patients with Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus and Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus.
The body naturally produces insulin to help regulate natural amounts of blood glucose. Patients with diabetes do not have enough insulin to meet their metabolic needs. The glucose in their bloodstream is unable to transport into cells where it is needed.
A diabetes patient with too much blood sugar is hyperglycemic. A patient with too low blood sugar is hypoglycemic. Both of these conditions can be harmful. Injectable insulin helps to regulate normal levels of blood sugar.
Fact Table
Formula
C257H383N65O77S6
License
US FDA, EMA
Bioavailability
~55–60%
Legal status
Prescription only (Rx)
Chemical Name
Insulin Lispro
Elimination half-life
~1 hour
Dosage (Strength)
100 units/mL (U-100), 200 units/mL (U-200)
Pregnancy
Category B – No evidence of risk in humans
Brands
Humalog, Admelog, Lyumjev
Protein binding
Low
PubChem CID
16129678
MedlinePlus
a696019
ChEBI
6932
ATC code
A10AB04
DrugBank
DB01306
KEGG
D08159
Routes of administration
Subcutaneous injection, intravenous (in emergencies)
Directions
Take HUMALOG exactly as directed by your doctor. The dosage is different for every person and must be determined by your doctor.
HUMALOG insulin is injected under the skin, usually in the belly or other sites.
Lispro is similar to regular human insulin but is modified to work more quickly. HUMALOG begins working in about 15 minutes.
Some medications may interfere with your ability to tell if you are hypoglycemic. Tell your doctor if you are taking any of the following:
Beta-blockers
Clonidine
Guanethidine
Reserpine
Cautions
Insulin may cause hypoglycemia when combined with other anti-diabetic medications. Review your entire diabetes regimen and make sure you know the signs and symptoms of low blood sugar when making any changes. Hypoglycemia can be life-threatening.
Insulin should only be used under medical supervision and while monitoring blood glucose
Tell your doctor if you have a history of low potassium (hypokalemia).
Do not mix HUMALOG with other insulins unless directed by your doctor or pharmacist.
Tell your doctor if you have a history of heart disease, are using a thiazolidinedione, and are taking insulin.
Frequently Asked Questions about Humalog (Insulin Lispro)
What is Humalog (Insulin Lispro)?
Humalog is a rapid-acting insulin analog used to help control blood sugar spikes that occur after meals. It starts working quickly (within about 15 minutes), peaks around 1 hour, and lasts for 2–4 hours.
When should I take Humalog?
Humalog should be injected within 15 minutes before a meal or immediately after eating. It is designed to match the glucose rise from food.
What’s the difference between Humalog and long-acting insulins like Lantus?
Humalog is rapid-acting, meant to control mealtime blood sugar spikes. Lantus is long-acting, used for basal (background) insulin needs. They are often used together in people with type 1 diabetes or advanced type 2 diabetes.
Can I use Humalog in an insulin pump?
Yes. Humalog is approved for use in insulin pumps (continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion, or CSII). Always follow pump-specific instructions and work with your provider to set the right basal and bolus rates.
How is Humalog taken?
Humalog can be injected:
Subcutaneously using a pen or syringe Via insulin pump Intravenously in medical settings (hospital use only)
What are common side effects of Humalog?
The most common side effect is low blood sugar (hypoglycemia). Other possible effects include:
Injection site reactions Weight gain Allergic reactions (rare)
How do I store Humalog?
Unopened vials/pens: Store in the refrigerator (36°F–46°F / 2°C–8°C)
In-use pens/vials: May be kept at room temperature (up to 86°F / 30°C) for 28 days Do not freeze and avoid direct heat or light.
Can I mix Humalog with other insulins?
Humalog can be mixed with NPH insulin (intermediate-acting), but not with long-acting insulins like Lantus or Levemir. If mixing, inject immediately after mixing and follow your healthcare provider’s instructions.
Is Humalog available in generic form?
Yes. A biosimilar version called Insulin Lispro Injection is available, offering the same effectiveness at a potentially lower cost. It is considered interchangeable with brand-name Humalog.
Can Humalog be used in children?
Yes. Humalog is approved for use in children =3 years old with type 1 diabetes. Dosing must be tailored by a pediatric diabetes specialist, and regular monitoring is essential.
IMPORTANT NOTE:
The above information is intended to increase awareness of health information and does not suggest treatment or diagnosis. This information is not a substitute for individual medical attention and should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. See your health care professional for medical advice and treatment.
Prescription Required