How it works
Insulin replaces or supplements endogenous insulin. It promotes cellular glucose uptake (muscle/adipose), inhibits hepatic glucose production, and lowers blood glucose. Regular insulin covers mealtime glucose rises; NPH provides intermediate basal coverage.
Onset • Peak • Duration (typical)
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Humulin R (Regular, short-acting): Onset ≈ 30–60 minutes; Peak ≈ 2–4 hours; Duration ≈ 5–8 hours.
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Humulin N (NPH, intermediate): Onset ≈ 1–2 hours; Peak ≈ 4–12 hours; Duration ≈ 12–24 hours.
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Humulin 70/30 (premix): Combines the above profiles — an initial rapidish component for meals plus an intermediate component for basal coverage.
Formulations & concentration
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Most common: U-100 (100 units/mL).
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Humulin R U-500 exists (very concentrated regular insulin) for severe insulin resistance — requires special handling and prescriber guidance.
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Available in vials and prefilled pens depending on product.
Storage & handling (general guidance)
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Unopened: Refrigerate (2–8°C) until expiration. Do not freeze.
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Opened/first-use: Many Humulin preparations are stable at room temperature (up to ~28 days) — follow the manufacturer label or your pharmacist for exact timing and temperature limits. Avoid direct heat/sunlight.
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Gently roll NPH vials (don’t shake hard) to re-suspend.
Common side effects & safety
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Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) — the most important and potentially serious risk. Know symptoms and treatment.
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Weight gain (with chronic insulin therapy).
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Injection-site reactions or lipohypertrophy (rotate sites).
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Allergic reactions (rare).
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Use caution with renal/hepatic impairment and with certain medications that affect glucose.
Drug interactions & precautions
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Many medications alter glucose control (e.g., steroids ↑ glucose; beta-blockers may mask hypoglycemia). Coordinate with prescriber when starting/stopping other drugs.
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Special caution with concentrated formulations (U-500) — dosing errors can be dangerous.
Practical notes
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Dosing is individualized (based on glucose monitoring, carb intake, clinical context). Never convert or substitute concentrations without prescriber guidance.
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Education: sick-day rules, hypoglycemia treatment, injection technique, site rotation, and disposal of sharps.
Positive and Negative Side Effects
Positive Side Effects
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Effective blood sugar control in type 1 and type 2 diabetes
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Reduces risk of long-term complications (neuropathy, kidney disease, eye damage)
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Flexible formulations (short, intermediate, premixed) for different needs
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Time-tested and widely available
Negative Side Effects
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Risk of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) if meals, doses, or activity are not balanced
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Weight gain with long-term use
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Injection site irritation or lipohypertrophy
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Potential dosing errors (especially with concentrated U-500 formulation)
Product Disclaimer
We always suggest to do your own research before making a decision on which formulas are best for you. Listening to others may put you in danger, and we always recommend for newcomers to make themselves informed of all the benefits, and side effects.
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