Humulin R (Insulin)

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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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    Description

    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.

    Fact Table

    Formula

    C257H383N65O77S6

    License

    US FDA, EMA

    Bioavailability

    ~55–60%

    Legal status

    Prescription only (Rx)

    Chemical Name

    Insulin (Human Regular)

    Elimination half-life

    ~4–6 minutes (plasma); duration 6–10 hours

    Dosage (Strength)

    100 units/mL (U-100), 500 units/mL (U-500)

    Pregnancy

    Category B – No evidence of risk in humans

    Brands

    Humulin R, Novolin R

    Protein binding

    Low

    PubChem CID

    16129676

    MedlinePlus

    a682404

    ChEBI

    5916

    ATC code

    A10AB01

    DrugBank

    DB00030

    KEGG

    D04466

    Routes of administration

    Subcutaneous injection, intravenous (hospital use)

    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:

    • Allergic reactions
    • Edema
    • Hypoglycemia
    • Injection site reactions
    • Lipodystrophy
    • Pruritis
    • Rash
    • Weight gain

    References

    1. Humulin R [package insert].Indianapolis, IN: Lilly; 2019.



    Frequently Asked Questions about Humulin R


    What is Humulin R?

    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.

    Product Code : 13360

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