Humalog
Generic Name: Insulin Lispro
What is Humalog?
Humalog is an injectable, fast-acting insulin. Humalog is used to control high blood sugar (glucose) in people with diabetes.What is the most important information I should know about Humalog?
Humalog can cause you to experience low blood sugar. Therefore, it is important to take Humalog exactly as prescribed by your doctor. It is a good idea to carry a reliable source of glucose (such as tablets or gel) to treat low blood sugar. If this is not available, you should eat or drink a quick source of sugar such as table sugar, honey, candy, orange juice, or non-diet soda. This will raise your blood sugar level quickly. Contact your doctor immediately if you feel any symptoms of low blood sugar, such as dizziness, lightheadedness, tingling in your extremities, palpitations, sweating, or tremor.Humalog is a fast-acting insulin and begins to work very quickly. Therefore, when used as a meal-time insulin, Humalog should be taken 15 minutes before or immediately after a meal.
Do not make any changes with your insulin unless you have talked to your doctor.
Who should not take Humalog?
Do not take Humalog if you are allergic to any of its ingredients. Also, you should not take Humalog if your blood sugar is too low.What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Humalog?
Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Humalog. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have kidney or liver problems.What is the usual dosage?
The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.Adults and children ≥3 years: You doctor will determine your dose based on your metabolic needs, eating habits, and other lifestyle variables.
How should I take Humalog?
Inject Humalog 15 minutes before eating or right after eating a meal. Inject Humalog under your skin in your upper arm, abdomen, thigh, or buttocks. Never inject it into a vein or muscle. Rotate injection sites within the same body area.Only use Humalog that is clear and colorless.
Your doctor may advise you to mix your Humalog with a longer-acting human insulin. When mixing these two types of insulin, always draw Humalog into the syringe first. Do not dilute or mix Humalog with any other insulin in the same prefilled pen, cartridge, or external pump.
Use the proper injection technique taught to you by your doctor. Refer to the package insert that accompanies Humalog for detailed instructions. If you are using an external pump, read the manufacturer's instructions that come with the pump.
Do not make any changes with your insulin unless you have talked to your doctor. Your insulin needs may change because of illness, stress, other medicines, or changes in diet or activity level. Talk to your doctor about how to adjust your insulin dose.
What should I avoid while taking Humalog?
Avoid drinking alcohol while taking Humalog. Alcohol can alter your blood sugar levels.Do not inject Humalog in the same place twice in a row; rotate injection sites with each dose. Do not dilute or mix Humalog with any other insulin in the same prefilled pen, cartridge, or external pump.
What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Humalog?
If Humalog is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Humalog with the following: alcohol, oral antidiabetic drugs, certain antipsychotics, certain blood pressure medicines, clonidine, corticosteroids, danazol, disopyramide, estrogens, isoniazid, antidepressants in a class known as monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitors, niacin, octreotide, birth control pills, salicylates, sulfa antibiotics, and thyroid hormones.What are the possible side effects of Humalog?
Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.Side effects may include: low blood sugar symptoms (dizziness, shaky, lightheaded, irritable, headache, etc.), injection-site reactions, allergic reactions
Can I receive Humalog if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?
The effects of Humalog during pregnancy and breastfeeding are unknown. Tell your doctor immediately if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.What should I do if I miss a dose of Humalog?
It is very important to follow your insulin regimen exactly. Do not miss any doses. Ask your doctor for specific instructions to follow in case you ever miss a dose of insulin.How should I store Humalog?
Any unopened Humalog should be stored in the refrigerator (not the freezer). Do not use after the expiration date printed on the label.Any opened Humalog vials may be stored in the refrigerator or at room temperature for 28 days. Opened Humalog cartridges or prefilled pens should not be refrigerated, but should be kept at room temperature away from direct heat and light for 28 days.
I'm Kristen Dore, PharmD. Welcome to PDR Health!
