Humalog

What is it?

A preparation of insulin lispro which is a very rapid acting insulin, containing 100iu per ml, available in cartridges and preloaded pens.

Medical Uses

Diabetes.

Dosage

According to individual patient requirements, usually self-delivered by subcutaneous injection, or continuous subcutaneous infusion, or by intravenous infusion or intramuscular injection. Given shortly before or just after a meal. Begins to take effect within 15 minutes and activity continues for 2 to 5 hours.

Special Care

Kidney or liver disease, patients transferring from animal insulins (should be warned that early signs of hypoglycemia may not be so apparent). Infections, illnesses, stress, emotional upset, pregnancy, change in insulin source, type etc; in all these cases, dose adjustments may be needed.

Possible Drug and Food Interactions

Oral contraceptives, MAOIs, alcohol, β-blockers, cortico trophin, diuretics, corticosteroids.

Known Side Effects

Lipodystrophy (changes in volving fat deposition) at injection site.

Manufacturer

Lilly.