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.
HUMULIN 70/30 is a prescription insulin product that treats high blood sugar (hyperglycemia) in people with diabetes. It can be used for type 1 diabetes and type 2 diabetes.
In type 1 diabetes, patients have damaged pancreas cells. Normally, the pancreas produces insulin to manage and control increases in blood sugar. The pancreas cells of a person with type 1 diabetes do not produce enough insulin to regulate blood sugar.
In type 2 diabetes, patients produce insulin, but the other cells of their body are resistant to it. Prescription insulin can help to give them the extra insulin needed to regulate blood sugar.
Directions
Inject HUMULIN insulin 70/30 under the skin. Administer 30-45 minutes before a meal.
Rotate injection sites to reduce the risk of injection site side effects. Injections sites include the abdomen, thigh, upper arms, and buttocks.
Ingredients
HUMULIN 70/30 is a mixture of regular human insulin and human insulin isophane (NPH insulin). The mixture of insulin allows for 24-hour control of high blood sugar when used correctly.
Regular human insulin is short-acting and begins working in about 30-45 minutes.
Human insulin isophane is an intermediate-acting insulin that can work for 12 to 20 hours.
Interactions
While insulin does not directly interact with other medications, many can impact blood sugar. Use caution if you are taking any of the following:
Alcohol
Atypical Antipsychotics
Beta-blockers
Clonidine
Corticosteroids
Disopyramide
Diuretics
Estrogens/Progesterones
Fibrates
Fluoxetine
Isoniazid
Lithium
Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs)
Niacin
Oral antidiabetic agents
Pentoxifylline
Phenothiazine derivatives
Pramlintide
Propoxyphene
Protease inhibitors
Salicylates
Somatostatin Analogues
Somatropin
Sulfonamide Antibiotics
Sympathomimetic agents
Thyroid replacement medication
These medications may make your normal insulin dose more effective or less effective. Your dose may need to be adjusted while taking them.
Cautions
Liver or kidney damage may affect your dose of insulin.
Use caution if you have a history of low potassium levels (hypokalemia).
The most common side effect of insulin treatment is low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), which can be life-threatening. Familiarize yourself with the symptoms of hypoglycemia by speaking to your doctor or pharmacist.
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.