Humulin R Vials (100 Units/mL)

Humulin R is a polypeptide hormone that is structurally similar to human insulin produced in the body. It effectively helps manage blood sugar levels for both adults and children with type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Humulin uses similar insulin as Novolin, that can also be found in pens, vials and cartridges.

Insulin is a hormone produced by an organ in the body called the pancreas. Insulin is necessary for managing glucose (sugar) in the blood.

For those with type 1 and type 2 diabetes, their bodies either do not produce enough or any insulin, which requires insulin injections.

Humulin R U-100 is injected under the skin (subcutaneously). Insulin should not be injected into a vein or muscle. Make sure you are using a syringe marked U-100. Humulin R can also be found in the 70/30 mixture.

This short-acting insulin starts working within 30 minutes, peaks in 2-3 hours and works up to 8 hours.

Through the use of insulin, patients can effectively break down carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. With proper carbohydrate metabolism, patients can avoid the production of ketone bodies in the liver and other complications associated with diabetes.

Humulin R (insulin human recombinant) U-100 is a transparent, sterile, colorless solution containing human insulin at 100 units/mL, endogenous zinc, metacresol, and water. Hydrochloric acid and sodium hydroxide may be added to adjust the pH levels during the manufacturing of this medication.

Insulin isophane is also available through Humulin N vials and KwikPens.

Please read and order your prescription carefully. Many patients mix up Humulin and Humalog, as they both are diabetic medications with similar names.

Warnings and Precautions

Humulin R should not be used to treat children under two years old or children with type 2 diabetes of any age.

Do not use Humulin R if the substance appears cloudy, slightly colored, contains particles or thickens. Do not use the medication if it was previously frozen. Ensure the drug has not passed its expiration date.

Syringes and pens should not be shared as they are meant to be single-patient only. Sharing pens and needles can lead to the spread of infection and disease.

Make sure you are following your doctor’s instructions for your specific needs. Read the patient leaflet, especially after refills, provided by the pharmacy to ensure you understand instructions and preparation. If you have questions regarding Humulin R, speak to your doctor, pharmacist, or medical expert.

Before administering a dose of insulin, clear the injection area with a cotton swab and rubbing alcohol.

Rotate injection sites to avoid skin problems such as lumps, pits, or thickened skin.

Insulin regular should be injected under the skin in the abdomen, upper thigh, upper arm, or buttocks as instructed by your doctor or nurse.

Do not rub the injection site after injecting.

Do not inject into skin that appears red, itchy, swollen, or damaged.

Do not inject into a muscle or vein, resulting in low blood sugar (hypoglycemia).

Insulin should be taken 30 minutes before meals. Since Humulin R is fast-acting, you should not start eating directly after injection as this can result in hypoglycemia.

Do not use insulin regularly with an insulin pump.

Speak with your doctor if your condition worsens or does not improve from this diabetes medication.

Humulin R may be mixed with other medications, such as longer-acting insulin (see drug interactions tab for more information). Your doctor will provide direction as to which products can be combined with your treatment.

Follow your treatment plan provided by your doctor and measure each dose carefully. By modifying the amount of insulin dose can drastically affect blood sugar levels.

Speak to your pharmacist on how to dispose of unused needles and pens safely properly.

Check blood sugar levels regularly using tools for blood sugar monitoring. Please keep track of results and share them with your doctor as the information is essential in determining dosage requirements.

Blood sugar levels may be affected by surgery, exercise, stress, illness, and alcohol. Skipping meals can also lead to low blood sugar levels. Speak to your doctor about how to proceed if you miss a meal or dose.

Wear or carry identification that lets others know you have diabetes.

Side Effects

Symptoms associated with using insulin can differ depending on a patient’s health, treatment, and condition.

Most people do not experience side effects with insulin treatment. If you do experience side effects that worsen and persist, contact your doctor immediately, especially if you see signs of low potassium levels in the blood, irregular heartbeats, cramps, and weakness.

Injection site reactions may occur. This can include redness, irritation, and pain at injection sites.

Insulin can cause low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), showing symptoms of cold sweats, shaking, hunger, blurred vision, increased heartbeat, dizziness, or tingling feet/hands.

You are carrying a diabetic candy, glucose tablets, or a sugary drink (non-diet) in case of hypoglycemic side effects. To prevent hypoglycemia from occurring, be sure to eat meals regularly and do not skip meals. Consult your doctor for instruction in the event you miss a meal.

Hyperglycemia is another side effect that also may occur. Symptoms include increased thirst, increased urination, flushing, rapid breathing, drowsiness, confusion, and fruity breath. Speak with your doctor if you experience symptoms, as your dosage may need to be adjusted.

Severe allergic reactions when taking insulin are rare. If you experience itching/swelling, body rash, trouble breathing, or dizziness, seek medical attention immediately.

All Humulin R insulin side effects listed above are not complete. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist about possible side effects.