Also known as Humalog Mix50 (in Canada)
Humalog is a combination insulin that is both a rapid and intermediate acting insulin for Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes treatment and allows for easier dose adjustment compared to singular-type insulins. The fast-acting insulin lispro is absorbed more quickly to control blood sugar during meals while the intermediate-acting lispro protamine insulin is absorbed more slowly and lasts longer in your body to hold over and control blood sugar between meals. Humalog insulin also works for Type 2 diabetes treatment by prompting the liver to produce less sugar so that less of it is in the bloodstream.
| Fact Table | |
|---|---|
| Formula | C257H383N65O77S6 |
| License | FDA approved |
| Bioavailability | Rapid-acting insulin |
| Legal status | Rx-Only |
| Chemical Name | Insulin lispro protamine and insulin lispro injectable suspension |
| Elimination half-life | 2-5 hours for insulin lispro component |
| Dosage (Strength) | Mix of 50% insulin lispro protamine and 50% insulin lispro; available in cartridges and KwikPens |
| Pregnancy | Should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus |
| Brands | Humalog Mix 50/50 |
| Protein binding | Insulins generally have low protein binding |
| PubChem CID | 16132418 (for insulin lispro) |
| MedlinePlus | a601204 |
| ChEBI | 6888 (for insulin lispro) |
| ATC code | A10AD04 (for insulin lispro) |
| DrugBank | DB00046 (for insulin lispro) |
| KEGG | D04475 (for insulin lispro) |
| Routes of administration | Subcutaneous |
Standard dosage guidelines for Humalog are to administer injection 15 minutes before a meal or immediately after a meal.
Injection may be made into one of 3 acceptable injection sites: thighs / abdomen (outside a 2” radius around navel) / back of upper arms.
Be sure to use a different injection site for every new injection, as injecting at the same site repeatedly may result in harm to skin (lipodystrophy) at injection site.
Wash your hands.
Remove the pen cap and look to confirm the medication is clear and has no color.
Prepare syringe for injection, including attaching needle if required depending on the type of syringe you are using.
Insert needle tip through vial covering and into Humalog 50 50 insulin solution and pull back on plunger handle to fill syringe with insulin, measuring correct amount by looking at measurement points on the syringe.
Once syringe is filled to the correct amount, remove the needle from the vial and keep needle in upright position and firmly in hand as you prepare to administer the injection.
Give yourself the insulin injection in one of the three spots listed above.
The active ingredients in Humalog 50 50 are Insulin Lispro and Insulin Protamine.
Tell your doctor if you have any history of heart failure, kidney or liver problems, low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), low potassium levels, or allergic reactions before starting on Humalog 50 50 insulin.
Medication is not recommended for the treatment of diabetic ketoacidosis.
Keep Humalog 50/50 insulin stored at 36°F to 46°F (2°C to 8°C) or at room temperature below 86°F (30°C) as indicated in your medication.
Possible negative drug interactions between Humalog and other Rx medications:
Tell your doctor of all medications you are taking before receiving a medication and proceeding to buy Humalog 50 50 insulin from Canada.
Side effects from using Humalog insulin are possible, and some users may experience injection site skin irritation, lipodystrophy, weight gain, headache, or edema (swelling in feet and / or ankles). If side effects are seen you may want to discontinue use and speak to your doctor again about insulin vial alternatives to Humalog 50/50 for Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes treatment.
What is Humalog 50/50?
It's a combination medicine used to improve blood sugar control in adults with diabetes mellitus, suitable for both type 1 and type 2 diabetes.
How does Humalog 50/50 work?
It starts to work within 10 to 20 minutes after injection, peaks in 2 hours, and keeps working for up to 24 hours.
What are the side effects of Humalog 50/50?
Common side effects include low blood sugar, itching, mild skin rash, and thickening or hollowing of the skin at the injection site. Serious side effects may include fluid retention, low potassium, and signs of insulin allergy.
Who should not use Humalog 50/50?
Individuals allergic to insulin lispro or experiencing an episode of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) should avoid using this medication.
How should Humalog 50/50 be used?
It should be injected under the skin, preferably within 15 minutes before eating a meal. Always follow the directions on the prescription label and use the medicine exactly as directed.
What should be done in case of a missed dose?
If a dose is missed, it should be taken within 15 minutes before the next meal. Do not double up on doses.
What happens in case of an overdose?
Overdose can lead to life-threatening hypoglycemia. Symptoms include drowsiness, confusion, blurred vision, and possible loss of consciousness. Seek emergency medical attention immediately.
What should be avoided while using Humalog 50/50?
Avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how it affects you. Also, avoid alcohol as it can cause low blood sugar and may interfere with diabetes treatment.
Can other drugs affect Humalog 50/50?
Yes, many other medicines can affect blood sugar levels and interact with insulin. Inform your health care providers about all medicines you use.
What other precautions should be taken?
Never share an injection pen, cartridge, or syringe with another person. Use a disposable needle and syringe only once, and follow proper disposal protocols.
