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Humulin R (Insulin)
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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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.
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:
Humulin R is a short-acting (regular) human insulin used to control blood sugar spikes after meals. It’s typically used in people with type 1 or type 2 diabetes.
How does Humulin R differ from rapid-acting insulins like Humalog or Novolog?
Humulin R starts working slower (within 30 minutes) and lasts longer (up to 8 hours), while rapid-acting insulins work in about 15 minutes and wear off sooner.
When should I take Humulin R?
Humulin R should be injected 30 minutes before meals to match the post-meal rise in blood glucose.
How long does Humulin R last in the body?
Its effects last about 6 to 8 hours, with a peak action between 2 and 4 hours after injection.
Is Humulin R used alone or with other insulins?
It can be used alone, but often it's combined with long-acting insulin (like Lantus or NPH) for full-day blood sugar control.
Is Humulin R used in insulin pumps?
Generally, no. Most insulin pumps use rapid-acting insulins (e.g., Humalog, Novolog). Humulin R may be used intravenously in hospitals for acute care.
Can Humulin R be mixed with other insulins?
Yes. It can be mixed with NPH insulin in the same syringe. Do not mix with Lantus, Levemir, or other long-acting insulins.
Is Humulin R available in different forms?
Yes. It's available in:
Vials (U-100) Pens (less common) U-500 strength for people with high insulin needs (used only under close medical supervision)
How should I store Humulin R?
Unopened: Store in a refrigerator (36°F–46°F / 2°C–8°C)
In use: Keep at room temp (below 86°F / 30°C) for up to 31 days Do not freeze.
Who can use Humulin R?
Humulin R is approved for adults and children with type 1 or type 2 diabetes. Pediatric use requires close medical supervision.
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