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.
NOVOLIN R insulin (regular human insulin) is an injectable medication prescribed for people with type 1 or type 2 diabetes mellitus. NOVOLIN R is injected under the skin with a short needle in the abdomen, back up the upper arm, or the front and outer sides of the thighs.
People with diabetes mellitus cannot regulate their blood sugar, and it may be too high or too low. High blood sugar can cause long-term damage to organs, and low blood sugar can be life-threatening. NOVOLIN R helps to regulate glycemic control.
Directions
Administer NOVOLIN R subcutaneously between one and three times daily as directed by the prescriber. NOVOLIN R should be injected approximately 30 minutes before a meal. Do not skip a meal after injecting NOVOLIN R.
Ingredients
The active ingredient in NOVOLIN R is regular human insulin.
Interactions
Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you use any of the following medications:
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 can raise or lower blood sugar and may require that the dose of insulin be adjusted.
Cautions
Monitor blood sugar frequently while using insulin therapy to prevent blood sugar from becoming too high or low.
Your doctor should monitor potassium levels while taking NOVOLIN R.
Your doctor should monitor your kidney and liver function while using NOVOLIN R.
Side Effects
Common adverse reactions to NOVOLIN R may 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.