PATIENT INFORMATION
HUMULIN® R
Regular Insulin Human Injection, Usp (RDNA Origin) 100 Units Per Ml (U-100)
WARNING
THIS LILLY HUMAN INSULIN PRODUCT DIFFERS FROM ANIMAL-SOURCE INSULINS BECAUSE
IT IS STRUCTURALLY IDENTICAL TO THE INSULIN PRODUCED BY YOUR BODY'S PANCREAS
AND BECAUSE OF ITS UNIQUE MANUFACTURING PROCESS.
ANY CHANGE OF INSULIN SHOULD BE MADE CAUTIOUSLY AND ONLY UNDER MEDICAL SUPERVISION.
CHANGES IN STRENGTH, MANUFACTURER, TYPE (E.G., REGULAR, NPH, ANALOG), SPECIES,
OR METHOD OF MANUFACTURE MAY RESULT IN THE NEED FOR A CHANGE IN DOSAGE.
SOME PATIENTS TAKING HUMULIN® (HUMAN INSULIN, rDNA ORIGIN) MAY REQUIRE
A CHANGE IN DOSAGE FROM THAT USED WITH OTHER INSULINS. IF AN ADJUSTMENT IS NEEDED,
IT MAY OCCUR WITH THE FIRST DOSE OR DURING THE FIRST SEVERAL WEEKS OR MONTHS.
Diabetes
Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas, a large gland that lies near
the stomach. This hormone is necessary for the body's correct use of food, especially
sugar. Diabetes occurs when the pancreas does not make enough insulin to meet
your body's needs.
To control your diabetes, your doctor has prescribed injections of insulin
products to keep your blood glucose at a near-normal level. You have been instructed
to test your blood regularly for glucose. Studies have shown that some chronic
complications of diabetes such as eye disease, kidney disease, and nerve disease
can be significantly reduced if the blood sugar is maintained as close to normal
as possible. Proper control of your diabetes requires close and constant cooperation
with your doctor. Despite diabetes, you can lead an active and healthy life
if you eat a balanced diet, exercise regularly, and take your insulin injections
as prescribed by your doctor.
Always keep an extra supply of insulin as well as a spare syringe and needle
on hand. Always wear diabetic identification so that appropriate treatment can
be given if complications occur away from home.
Regular Human Insulin
Description
Humulin is synthesized in a special non-disease-producing laboratory strain
of Escherichia coli bacteria that has been genetically altered to produce human
insulin. Humulin R [Regular insulin human injection, USP (rDNA origin)] consists
of zinc-insulin crystals dissolved in a clear fluid. It takes effect within
30 minutes and has a duration of activity of approximately 4 to 12 hours. The
time course of action of any insulin may vary considerably in different individuals
or at different times in the same individual. As with all insulin preparations,
the duration of action of Humulin R (insulin (human recombinant)) is dependent on dose, site of injection,
blood supply, temperature, and physical activity. Humulin R (insulin (human recombinant)) is a sterile solution
and is for subcutaneous injection. It should not be used intramuscularly. The
concentration of Humulin R (insulin (human recombinant)) is 100 units/mL (U-100).
Identification
Human insulin from Eli Lilly and Company has the trademark Humulin. Your doctor
has prescribed the type of insulin that he/she believes is best for you.
DO NOT USE ANY OTHER INSULIN EXCEPT ON YOUR DOCTOR'S ADVICE AND DIRECTION.
Always check the carton and the bottle label for the name and letter designation
of the insulin you receive from your pharmacy to make sure it is the same as
prescribed by your doctor. There are two Humulin R (insulin (human recombinant)) formulations: Humulin R (insulin (human recombinant)) U-100
and Humulin R (insulin (human recombinant)) U-500. Make sure that you have the formulation prescribed by your
doctor.
Always check the appearance of your bottle of Humulin R (insulin (human recombinant)) before withdrawing
each dose. Humulin R (insulin (human recombinant)) is a clear and colorless liquid with a water-like appearance
and consistency. Do not use Humulin R (insulin (human recombinant)) :
- if it appears cloudy, thickened, or slightly colored, or
- if solid particles are visible.
If you see anything unusual in the appearance of Humulin R (insulin (human recombinant)) solution in your
bottle or notice your insulin requirements changing, talk to your doctor.
Storage
Not in-use (unopened): Humulin R (insulin (human recombinant)) U-100 bottles not in-use should be
stored in a refrigerator (36° to 46°F [2° to 8°C]), but not
in the freezer.
In-use (opened): The Humulin R (insulin (human recombinant)) U-100 bottle you are currently using
can be kept unrefrigerated as long as it is kept as cool as possible [below
86°F (30°C)] away from heat and light. In-use bottles must be used within
31 days or be thrown out, even if they still contain Humulin R (insulin (human recombinant)) U-100.
Do not use Humulin R (insulin (human recombinant)) after the expiration date stamped on the label or if
it has been frozen.
Dosage
Your doctor has told you which insulin to use, how much, and when and how often
to inject it. Because each patient's diabetes is different, this schedule has
been individualized for you.
Your usual dose of Humulin R (insulin (human recombinant)) may be affected by changes in your diet, activity,
or work schedule. Carefully follow your doctor's instructions to allow for these
changes. Other things that may affect your Humulin R (insulin (human recombinant)) dose are:
Illness
Illness, especially with nausea and vomiting, may cause your insulin requirements
to change. Even if you are not eating, you will still require insulin. You and
your doctor should establish a sick day plan for you to use in case of illness.
When you are sick, test your blood glucose frequently. If instructed by your
doctor, test your ketones and report the results to your doctor.
Pregnancy
Good control of diabetes is especially important for you and your unborn baby.
Pregnancy may make managing your diabetes more difficult. If you are planning
to have a baby, are pregnant, or are nursing a baby, talk to your doctor.
Medication
Insulin requirements may be increased if you are taking other drugs with blood-glucose-raising
activity, such as oral contraceptives, corticosteroids, or thyroid replacement
therapy. Insulin requirements may be reduced in the presence of drugs that lower
blood glucose or affect how your body responds to insulin, such as oral antidiabetic
agents, salicylates (for example, aspirin), sulfa antibiotics, alcohol, certain
antidepressants and some kidney and blood pressure medicines. Your Health Care
Professional may be aware of other medications that may affect your diabetes
control. Therefore, always discuss any medications you are taking with your
doctor.
Exercise
Exercise may lower your body's need for insulin during and for some time after
the physical activity. Exercise may also speed up the effect of an insulin dose,
especially if the exercise involves the area of injection site (for example,
the leg should not be used for injection just prior to running). Discuss with
your doctor how you should adjust your insulin regimen to accommodate exercise.
Travel
When traveling across more than 2 time zones, you should talk to your doctor
concerning adjustments in your insulin schedule.
Common Problems Of Diabetes
Hypoglycemia (Low Blood Sugar)
Hypoglycemia (too little glucose in the blood) is one of the most frequent
adverse events experienced by insulin users. It can be brought about by:
Missing or delaying meals.
Taking too much insulin.
Exercising or working more than usual.
An infection or illness associated with diarrhea or vomiting.
A change in the body's need for insulin.
Diseases of the adrenal, pituitary, or thyroid gland, or progression of
kidney or liver disease.
Interactions with certain drugs, such as oral antidiabetic agents, salicylates
(for example, aspirin), sulfa antibiotics, certain antidepressants and some
kidney and blood pressure medicines.
Consumption of alcoholic beverages.
Symptoms of mild to moderate hypoglycemia may occur suddenly and can include:
- sweating
- dizziness
- palpitation
- tremor
- hunger
- restlessness
- tingling in the hands, feet, lips, or tongue
- lightheadedness
- inability to concentrate
- headache
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- drowsiness
- sleep disturbances
- anxiety
- blurred vision
- slurred speech
- depressed mood
- irritability
- abnormal behavior
- unsteady movement
- personality changes
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Signs of severe hypoglycemia can include:
- disorientation
- unconsciousness
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Therefore, it is important that assistance be obtained immediately.
Early warning symptoms of hypoglycemia may be different or less pronounced
under certain conditions, such as long duration of diabetes, diabetic nerve
disease, use of medications such as beta-blockers, changing insulin preparations,
or intensified control (3 or more insulin injections per day) of diabetes.
A few patients who have experienced hypoglycemic reactions after transfer
from animal-source insulin to human insulin have reported that the early warning
symptoms of hypoglycemia were less pronounced or different from those experienced
with their previous insulin.
Without recognition of early warning symptoms, you may not be able to take
steps to avoid more serious hypoglycemia. Be alert for all of the various types
of symptoms that may indicate hypoglycemia. Patients who experience hypoglycemia
without early warning symptoms should monitor their blood glucose frequently,
especially prior to activities such as driving. If the blood glucose is below
your normal fasting glucose, you should consider eating or drinking sugar-containing
foods to treat your hypoglycemia.
Mild to moderate hypoglycemia may be treated by eating foods or drinks that
contain sugar. Patients should always carry a quick source of sugar, such as
hard candy or glucose tablets. More severe hypoglycemia may require the assistance
of another person. Patients who are unable to take sugar orally or who are unconscious
require an injection of glucagon or should be treated with intravenous administration
of glucose at a medical facility.
You should learn to recognize your own symptoms of hypoglycemia. If you are
uncertain about these symptoms, you should monitor your blood glucose frequently
to help you learn to recognize the symptoms that you experience with hypoglycemia.
If you have frequent episodes of hypoglycemia or experience difficulty in recognizing
the symptoms, you should talk to your doctor to discuss possible changes in
therapy, meal plans, and/or exercise programs to help you avoid hypoglycemia.
Hyperglycemia (High Blood Sugar) and Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA)
Hyperglycemia (too much glucose in the blood) may develop if your body has
too little insulin. Hyperglycemia can be brought about by any of the following:
Omitting your insulin or taking less than your doctor has prescribed.
Eating significantly more than your meal plan suggests.
Developing a fever, infection, or other significant stressful situation.
In patients with type 1 or insulin-dependent diabetes, prolonged hyperglycemia
can result in DKA (a life-threatening emergency). The first symptoms of DKA
usually come on gradually, over a period of hours or days, and include a drowsy
feeling, flushed face, thirst, loss of appetite, and fruity odor on the breath.
With DKA, blood and urine tests show large amounts of glucose and ketones. Heavy breathing and a rapid pulse are more severe symptoms. If uncorrected, prolonged
hyperglycemia or DKA can lead to nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, dehydration,
loss of consciousness, or death. Therefore, it is important that you obtain
medical assistance immediately.
Lipodystrophy
Rarely, administration of insulin subcutaneously can result in lipoatrophy
(seen as an apparent depression of the skin) or lipohypertrophy (seen as a raised
area of the skin). If you notice either of these conditions, talk to your doctor.
A change in your injection technique may help alleviate the problem.
Allergy
Local Allergy — Patients occasionally experience redness, swelling, and itching
at the site of injection. This condition, called local allergy, usually clears
up in a few days to a few weeks. In some instances, this condition may be related
to factors other than insulin, such as irritants in the skin cleansing agent
or poor injection technique. If you have local reactions, talk to your doctor.
Systemic Allergy — Less common, but potentially more serious, is generalized
allergy to insulin, which may cause rash over the whole body, shortness of breath,
wheezing, reduction in blood pressure, fast pulse, or sweating. Severe cases
of generalized allergy may be life threatening. If you think you are having
a generalized allergic reaction to insulin, call your doctor immediately.
Additional Information
Information about diabetes may be obtained from your diabetes educator.
Additional information about diabetes and Humulin can be obtained by calling
The Lilly Answers Center at 1-800-LillyRx (1-800-545-5979) or by visiting www.LillyDiabetes.com.
Instructions For Insulin Vial Use
NEVER SHARE NEEDLES AND SYRINGES.
Correct Syringe Type
Doses of insulin are measured in units. U-100 insulin contains 100 units/mL
(1 mL=1 cc). With Humulin R (insulin (human recombinant)) , it is important to use a syringe that is marked
for U-100 insulin preparations. Failure to use the proper syringe can lead to
a mistake in dosage, causing serious problems for you, such as a blood glucose
level that is too low or too high.
Syringe Use
To help avoid contamination and possible infection, follow these instructions
exactly.
Disposable syringes and needles should be used only once and then discarded
by placing the used needle in a puncture-resistant disposable container. Properly
dispose of the puncture-resistant container as directed by your Health Care
Professional.
Preparing the Dose
Wash your hands.
Inspect the insulin. Humulin R (insulin (human recombinant)) solution should look clear and colorless.
Do not use Humulin R (insulin (human recombinant)) if it appears cloudy, thickened, or slightly colored,
or if you see particles in the solution. Do not use Humulin R (insulin (human recombinant)) if you notice
anything unusual in its appearance.
If using a new Humulin R (insulin (human recombinant)) bottle, flip off the plastic protective cap, but
do not remove the stopper. Wipe the top of the bottle with an alcohol swab.
If you are mixing insulins, refer to the “Mixing Humulin R (insulin (human recombinant)) with Longer-Acting
Human Insulins” section below.
Draw an amount of air into the syringe that is equal to the Humulin R (insulin (human recombinant)) dose.
Put the needle through rubber top of the Humulin R (insulin (human recombinant)) bottle and inject the air
into the bottle.
Turn the Humulin R (insulin (human recombinant)) bottle and syringe upside down. Hold the bottle and syringe
firmly in one hand.
Making sure the tip of the needle is in the Humulin R (insulin (human recombinant)) solution, withdraw
the correct dose of Humulin R (insulin (human recombinant)) into the syringe.
Before removing the needle from the Humulin R (insulin (human recombinant)) bottle, check the syringe
for air bubbles. If bubbles are present, hold the syringe straight up and
tap its side until the bubbles float to the top. Push the bubbles out with
the plunger and then withdraw the correct dose.
Remove the needle from the bottle and lay the syringe down so that the needle
does not touch anything.
If you do not need to mix your Humulin R (insulin (human recombinant)) with a longer-acting insulin, go
to the “Injection Instructions” section below and follow the directions.
Mixing Humulin R (insulin (human recombinant)) with Longer-Acting Human Insulins
Humulin R (insulin (human recombinant)) should be mixed with longer-acting human insulins only on the
advice of your doctor.
Draw an amount of air into the syringe that is equal to the amount of longer-acting
insulin you are taking. Insert the needle into the longer-acting insulin bottle
and inject the air. Withdraw the needle.
Draw an amount of air into the syringe that is equal to the amount of Humulin
R you are taking. Insert the needle into the Humulin R (insulin (human recombinant)) bottle and inject the
air, but do not withdraw the needle.
Turn the Humulin R (insulin (human recombinant)) bottle and syringe upside down.
Making sure the tip of the needle is in the Humulin R (insulin (human recombinant)) solution, withdraw
the correct dose of Humulin R (insulin (human recombinant)) into the syringe.
Before removing the needle from the Humulin R (insulin (human recombinant)) bottle, check the syringe
for air bubbles. If bubbles are present, hold the syringe straight up and
tap its side until the bubbles float to the top. Push the bubbles out with
the plunger and then withdraw the correct dose.
Remove the syringe with the needle from the Humulin R (insulin (human recombinant)) bottle and insert
it into the longer-acting insulin bottle. Turn the longer-acting insulin bottle
and syringe upside down. Hold the bottle and syringe firmly in one hand and
shake gently. Making sure the tip of the needle is in the longer-acting insulin,
withdraw the correct dose of longer-acting insulin.
Remove the needle from the bottle and lay the syringe down so that the needle
does not touch anything.
Follow the directions under “Injection Instructions” section
below
Follow your doctor's instructions on whether to mix your insulins ahead of
time or just before giving your injection. It is important to be consistent
in your method.
Syringes from different manufacturers may vary in the amount of space between
the bottomline and the needle. Because of this, do not change:
- the sequence of mixing, or
- the model and brand of syringe or needle that your doctor has prescribed.
Injection Instructions
To avoid tissue damage, choose a site for each injection that is at least
½ inch from the previous injection site. The usual sites of injection
are abdomen, thighs, and arms.
Cleanse the skin with alcohol where the injection is to be made.
With one hand, stabilize the skin by spreading it or pinching up a large
area.
Insert the needle as instructed by your doctor.
Push the plunger in as far as it will go.
Pull the needle out and apply gentle pressure over the injection site for
several seconds. Do not rub the area.
Place the used needle in a puncture-resistant disposable container and properly
dispose of the puncture-resistant container as directed by your Health Care
Professional.