Humalog Mix

Humalog Mix Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Mechanism of Action, How Long Does it Take to Work? Humalog Mix is a brand name. Its generic name is Insulin Lispro Protamine + Insulin Lispro.

Humalog Mix

Humalog Mix is a combination formulation of prandial injectable insulin products prescribed for controlling blood sugar levels in adults with type 1 and type 2 diabetes. It is a long-acting form of insulin which is a type of human insulin analog produced through a recombinant DNA technology. The combination preparation contains a neutral protamine-based protamine added to insulin lispro which is an insulin analog with a rapid onset and short duration of action.

Uses for Humalog Mix

Humalog Mix is indicated specifically for treating type 1 and type 2 diabetes in adults. It works by increasing the production and release of insulin to manage high glucose levels. Insulin lispro is a short-acting insulin analog that functions similar to regular human insulin. It helps decrease the amount of glucose present in the bloodstream and move it to other body parts to be used as energy.

Mechanism of Action

Insulin lispro’s Sulfonylurea moiety means it interacts with receptors in the body that bind to the target molecules. These molecules then activate the enzyme adenylyl cyclase, which increases the amount of cyclic AMP. This increases the amount of insulin that is produced and secreted by the pancreas. The protamine addition to insulin lispro, acts like an intermediate-acting insulin and helps sustain the glucose-lowering effects of the insulin for up to 24 hours.

How Long Does it Take to Work?

Insulin lispro has a rapid onset of action with peak effects occurring within 4-5 hours. While its duration of action can vary from 12-24 hours, its effects typically last 6-14 hours. Peak effects and duration of action may be affected depending on factors such as the dosage administered and patient-specific factors.

Absorption

Insulin lispro is rapidly absorbed and reaches its peak concentration at approximately 1-2 hours post injection. The combination with protamine further helps to prolong its effects.

Route of Elimination

Insulin lispro is genetically engineered to act faster within the body than the regular form of insulin, thus it is cleared quickly from the body.

Dosage

The dose of insulin lispro depends on various patient-specific factors, such as age, overall health, current glucose levels, and other medications being taken. It is typically given twice per day depending on the patient's treatment regimen. The usual adult starting dose is one injection of 15-20 units. Doses are slowly increased over time and monitored using smbg (self-monitoring of blood glucose levels).

Administration

Humalog Mix should be administered subcutaneously after meals. It must be injected at the same time each day. Patients must not switch back and forth between insulin lispro and any other form of insulin. If changes in dosage or timing is required, the patient’s doctor must be consulted.

Side effects

The most common side effects of insulin lispro include low blood glucose levels, hypoglycemia, and weight gain. Additional side effects may include headache, nausea, dizziness, muscle weakness, infections, and redness of the skin at the injection site. Serious side effects may include allergic reactions such as anaphylaxis.

Toxicity

Insulin lispro is classified as pregnancy category C, which means the risk of fetal abnormalities is not fully determined. Additionally, there is a risk of maternal complications such as increased risk of major congenital malformations and stillbirths. It is important to monitor blood sugar levels closely during pregnancy.

Precaution

As with all medications, patients must take precaution when taking insulin lispro. They must carefully monitor their glucose levels using medical devices such as blood glucose meters, follow a healthy diet and exercise program, and ensure their doctor is aware of any changes in medication or lifestyle. Those with diabetes must be aware of the signs and symptoms of hypoglycemia such as dizziness, blurred vision, confusion, feelings of extreme hunger, and fatigue.

Interaction

Patients should inform their doctor of all medications, supplements, vitamins, and over-the-counter drugs they are taking. Certain medications may interact with insulin lispro and increase the risk of serious side effects, so it is important to consult a doctor if any of these medications are being taken.

Disease Interaction

Certain chronic diseases may interact with insulin lispro and increase the risk of serious side effects. Patients should inform their doctor of any pre-existing conditions such as heart, liver, or kidney disease, asthma, pancreas disorder, depression, gallbladder disease, gout, thyroid disorder, or if they are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Drug Interaction

Certain medications may interact with insulin lispro and increase the risk of low blood sugar levels. Examples of such medications include ACE inhibitors, angiotensin receptor blockers, beta blockers, calcium channel blockers, chlorpromazine, clonidine, diuretics, estrogen, furosemide, isoniazid, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), phenytoin, salicylates, sulfonamides, and thiazolidinediones.

Food Interactions

Certain different types of food may interact with insulin lispro. Patients should also ensure their diet is balanced with healthy food choices. Alcohol should be avoided, as it blocks the action of insulin lispro and can result in high blood sugar levels.

Pregnancy Use

Pregnant women should use insulin lispro cautiously. It is classified as pregnancy category C, which means the risk of fetal abnormalities is not fully determined. Pregnant women must consult their doctor before taking insulin lispro, and monitor their glucose levels closely.

Lactation Use

It is unknown if insulin lispro is secreted in human milk. Because of the potential for serious adverse reactions in breastfed infants, women should take insulin lispro cautiously while breastfeeding.

Acute Overdose

Overdose of insulin lispro may result in low blood sugar levels or hyperglycemia. If an overdose is suspected, seek medical attention immediately.

Contraindication

Patients should not take insulin lispro if they are allergic to the drug, have a pancreatic disorder or ketoacidosis, or if they have an elevated glucose level. Patients before starting the therapy should also inform their doctor of any existing medical conditions or medications they are taking.

Use Direction

It is important to follow the directions provided by your doctor when taking insulin lispro. The dose should be administered subcutaneously at the same time each day. The injection site should be rotated to minimize irritations. If an injection is missed, it should be taken as soon as possible unless it is almost time for the next injection.

Storage Condition

Insulin lispro should be stored at room temperature between 36-86°F (2-30°C). It should be away from direct heat and light and should not be frozen. Unused insulin should be safely discarded according to the directions provided by the manufacturer.

Volume of Distribution

The volume of distribution of insulin lispro is approximately 0.23-0.37 L/kg.

Half Life

The half-life of insulin lispro is approximately 5-7 minutes.

Clearance

The clearance of insulin lispro is approximately 0.15 L/kg/min.

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