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 R is a prescription drug given to treat high blood sugar (hyperglycemia) in people with diabetes mellitus. It can treat hyperglycemia in type 1 or type 2 diabetes.
People with diabetes mellitus have abnormal levels of insulin, and HUMULIN R helps to regulate their blood sugar. Blood sugar that is too high can cause organ damage, and blood sugar that is too low can be life-threatening.
Directions
Inject HUMULIN R insulin under the skin 30 minutes before meals. Do not skip a meal after taking a dose.
Store unopened vials in the refrigerator. Opened vials can be stored at room temperature for 28 days before discarding.
Ingredients
The active ingredient in HUMULIN R is regular short-acting human insulin.
Interactions
Insulin does not have any drug interactions with other medications. However, many different drugs can affect people with diabetes mellitus by raising or lowering their blood sugar. Tell your doctor 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
Cautions
Insulin treatment can cause dangerously low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), which can be a medical emergency. Monitor your blood sugar frequently while using insulin.
Tell your doctor if you have a history of low potassium (hypokalemia).
Changes to your diet, meals, medications, and other lifestyle changes may impact the dose of insulin you need.
Side Effects
The most common side effects of HUMULIN R can include:
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.