Novolin R (Insulin)

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  • Product Details

    Description

    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.

    Fact Table

    Formula

    C257H383N65O77S6

    License

    US FDA, EMA

    Bioavailability

    ~55–60%

    Legal status

    Prescription only (Rx)

    Chemical Name

    Regular Human Insulin

    Elimination half-life

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

    Dosage (Strength)

    100 units/mL (U-100)

    Pregnancy

    Category B – No evidence of risk in humans

    Brands

    Novolin R, ReliOn 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

    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:

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

    References

    Novolin R [package insert] Princeton, NJ: Novo Nordisk; 2012.




    Frequently Asked Questions about Novolin R


    What is Novolin R?

    Novolin R is a short-acting human insulin used to manage post-meal blood sugar in people with type 1 or type 2 diabetes. It contains regular insulin (U-100).


    How does Novolin R work?

    Novolin R starts working in 30 minutes, peaks at 2–4 hours, and lasts up to 8 hours. It’s used to cover mealtime glucose spikes.


    How is Novolin R different from rapid-acting insulins?

    Novolin R works slower and lasts longer than rapid-acting insulins like Humalog or Novolog, which start in ~15 minutes and last ~4 hours.


    When should I take Novolin R?

    You should inject Novolin R 30 minutes before a meal to match the rise in blood glucose.


    Is Novolin R a basal insulin?

    No. Novolin R is for mealtime (bolus) use. It does not provide basal coverage; a long-acting insulin like Lantus or Levemir is needed for that.


    Can Novolin R be used in children?

    Yes. Novolin R is approved for use in children with diabetes, though pediatric dosing should be carefully managed by a healthcare provider.


    How is Novolin R administered?

    It is injected subcutaneously (under the skin) using a syringe and vial. It can also be used intravenously in hospitals, but not with insulin pumps.


    Is Novolin R available in a pen device?

    No. Novolin R is typically available in 10 mL vials for use with syringes. There is no prefilled pen version available in the U.S.


    Can I mix Novolin R with other insulins?

    Yes. Novolin R can be mixed with NPH insulin in the same syringe. Draw up Novolin R (clear) before NPH (cloudy).


    How should I store Novolin R?

    Unopened: Refrigerate (36°F–46°F / 2°C–8°C)

    In use: Store at room temperature (below 77°F / 25°C) for up to 42 days
    Do not freeze or expose to heat.

    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 : 13365

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