when should you take humalog

Full Answer

Can you take Humalog after you eat?

Humalog should be taken within 15 minutes before eating or right after eating a meal. People who take Humalog will usually continue to take longer-acting insulin to help manage blood sugar levels at night and between meals. Taking mealtime insulin in addition to longer-acting insulin may help to control blood sugar levels throughout the day.

How long does Humalog stay active in the body?

Humalog (insulin lispro) is a fast-acting insulin that starts to work about 15 minutes after injection, peaks in about 1 hour, and keeps working for 2 to 4 hours. Insulin is a hormone that works by lowering levels of glucose (sugar) in the blood.

Is Humalog fast acting or slow acting insulin?

Humalog is an Eli Lilly product, with the active ingredient insulin lispro. It is extremely rapid-acting, and will typically begin to work within 15 minutes. Effects of the insulin last for between 2 and 5 hours. It is faster-acting than soluble insulin, and is therefore extremely useful around mealtimes.

What is the onset peak and duration of Humalog?

Humalog and Novolog are clear liquids that begin to work 10 minutes after injection and peak at 1 hour after injection, lasting for 3-4 hours in the body. However, most patients also need a longer-acting insulin to maintain good control of their blood sugar.

How long does it take for Humalog to lower blood sugar?

How long does it take for Humalog to work? Humalog and Humalog Mix work quickly to lower your blood sugar. Within 15 minutes after injection, the drugs start to lower your blood sugar levels. And after 1 hour, Humalog will have its maximum effect in your body.

When should Humalog be injected?

Official answer. Humalog should be injected within 15 minutes before eating a meal or immediately after eating a meal. Humalog is a rapid-acting insulin that is used to help control blood sugar in people with diabetes. Insulin is most commonly administered as a subcutaneous (under the skin) injection.

Is Humalog given at bedtime?

Can I use Humalog at bedtime? No, you shouldn't use Humalog at bedtime. The drug is a rapid-acting insulin and is meant to be used up to 15 minutes before a meal or right after a meal. Using Humalog at mealtimes helps you manage your blood sugar throughout the day.

Can you take Humalog without food?

Humalog is a rapid-acting form of insulin that should be injected below the skin within 15 minutes before or immediately after a meal. Have food ready before injection. After injecting the insulin, do not skip a meal or delay eating.

How much does Humalog lower blood sugar?

You can add rapid or short-acting insulin at mealtimes to help manage your blood sugar. Based on recommendations from the American Diabetes Association, the starting dose for rapid-acting insulins such as Humalog is about 4 units, or about 10% of your long-acting insulin dose.

How long does it take for Humalog to kick in?

Fast-acting insulin (also called rapid-acting), is absorbed quickly and starts working in about 15 minutes after injection to lower blood sugar after meals. Humalog is fast-acting insulin.

At what blood sugar level is insulin needed?

Insulin therapy will often need to be started if the initial fasting plasma glucose is greater than 250 or the HbA1c is greater than 10%.

What is the maximum amount of Humalog per day?

The HUMALOG U-100 KwikPen, HUMALOG U-100 Tempo Pen and HUMALOG U-200 KwikPen each dial in 1 unit increments and delivers a maximum dose of 60 units per injection. The HUMALOG U-100 Junior KwikPen dials in 0.5 unit increments and delivers a maximum does of 30 units per injection.

What is the peak time for Humalog?

Rapid- and Short-Acting Insulins: Pharmacokinetic DifferencesType of insulinOnsetPeak effectRapid acting: insulin lispro (Humalog)0 to 15 minutes30 to 90 minutesShort acting: regular human insulin (Humulin R, Novolin R)30 to 45 minutes2 to 4 hoursJan 15, 1998

What is the 500 rule in diabetes?

2. Use the 500 Rule to estimate insulin-to-carb ratio: 500/TDD = number of carb grams covered by a unit of insulin. Example: 500/50=10; 1unit of insulin will cover about 10 grams of carbohydrate.

What are the side effects of Humalog?

Mild side effects of Humalog can include:itching.rash.swelling in your hands or feet.weight gain*injection site reactions*hypoglycemia (low blood sugar levels)*lipodystrophy (skin thickening or forming “pits” at an injection site)*

Can you take metFORMIN with Humalog?

Using metFORMIN together with insulin lispro can increase the risk of hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar. You may need a dose adjustment or more frequent monitoring of your blood sugar to safely use both medications. Let your doctor know if you experience hypoglycemia during treatment.

What is the 500 rule in diabetes?

2. Use the 500 Rule to estimate insulin-to-carb ratio: 500/TDD = number of carb grams covered by a unit of insulin. Example: 500/50=10; 1unit of insulin will cover about 10 grams of carbohydrate.

How much insulin should I take if my blood sugar is 400?

Theoretically, to reduce 400 mg/dL blood sugar to about 100 mg/dL, you would need at least 10 units of insulin. However, depending on your weight and other factors, a higher dose of insulin is almost always required.

What happens if insulin is taken after food?

Taking mealtime insulin after your meals may put you at a greater risk of low blood glucose, or hypoglycemia. However, don't panic if you forget to take your insulin before your meal. Instead, take it at the end of the meal and keep an eye on your blood glucose.

How many times a day is Humalog insulin given?

You should take Humalog or Humalog Mix up to 15 minutes before you eat a meal. But you can also take your dose right after finishing a meal. You'll likely take Humalog Mix twice a day, usually with breakfast and dinner. Don't take Humalog or Humalog Mix at bedtime or between meals.

Before Taking This Medicine

You should not use Humalog if you are allergic to insulin, or if you are having an episode of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar).Humalog should not be...

How Should I Use Humalog?

Use Humalog exactly as it was prescribed for you. Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sh...

What Happens If I Miss A Dose?

Since Humalog is used before meals, you may not be on a timed dosing schedule. Whenever you use Humalog, be sure to eat a meal within 15 minutes. D...

What Happens If I Overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222. Insulin overdose can cause life-threatening hypoglycemia. Symptoms...

What Should I Avoid While Using Humalog?

Insulin can cause low blood sugar. Avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how this medicine will affect you.Avoid medication errors by...

What Other Drugs Will Affect Humalog?

Many other medicines can affect your blood sugar, and some medicines can increase or decrease the effects of insulin. Some drugs can also cause you...

How old is too old to take Humalog?

Humalog should not be given to a child younger than 3 years old. Humalog should not be used to treat type 2 diabetes in a child of any age.

How should I use Humalog?

Use Humalog exactly as it was prescribed for you. Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets.

What is Humalog?

Humalog (insulin lispro) is a fast-acting insulin that starts to work about 15 minutes after injection, peaks in about 1 hour, and keeps working for 2 to 4 hours. Insulin is a hormone that works by lowering levels of glucose (sugar) in the blood.

What should I avoid while using Humalog?

Insulin can cause low blood sugar. Avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how this medicine will affect you.

What other drugs will affect Humalog?

Tell each of your health care providers about all medicines you use now and any medicine you start or stop using. This includes prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

What is humalog treatment?

Humalog is only part of a complete program of treatment that may also include diet, exercise, weight control, foot care, eye care, dental care, and testing your blood sugar. Follow your diet, medication, and exercise routines very closely. Changing any of these factors can affect your blood sugar levels.

How to treat hypoglycemia?

To quickly treat hypoglycemia, eat or drink a fast-acting source of sugar (fruit juice, hard candy, crackers, raisins, or non-diet soda). Your doctor may prescribe a glucagon injection kit in case you have severe hypoglycemia. Be sure your family or close friends know how to give you this injection in an emergency.

When to take Humalog?

The best time to administer Humalog is either 15 minutes before you eat or right away after you’ve eaten. Your doctor will tell you how much to take for your doses.

What to tell your doctor before taking Humalog?

Before taking Humalog, be sure to tell your doctor about all medications you take (including prescription and over-the-counter types). Also describe any vitamins, herbs, or supplements you use. Your doctor or pharmacist can tell you about any interactions these items may cause with Humalog.

Does Humalog need to be refrigerated?

Yes, unopened Humalog needs to be refrigerated until you’re ready to use it. After getting Humalog from your pharmacy, you should place the unopened drug into your refrigerator. And make sure the temperature is between 36°F and 46°F (2°C and 8°C).

How does humalog work?

In the past, doctors would prescribe Humalog on a sliding scale to quickly lower a person’s blood sugar level depending on their blood sugar readings. With a sliding scale, small amounts of Humalog are injected as needed based on your current blood sugar level.

What is the difference between humalog and novolog?

Humalog and Novolog are both used to manage blood sugar levels in people with diabetes. Novolog contains insulin aspart, while Humalog contains insulin lispro.

How long does humalog last?

Humalog can last about 4 to 5 hours in your body.

How long does it take for humalog to work?

This means that the action time starts 15 minutes after you take a Humalog injection. And the drug’s action time lasts about 2 to 4 hours, with a peak effect after 1 hour. (Peak effect is when the drug has its maximum effect in your body.)

When to take humalog?

Humalog and NovoLog are rapid-acting insulin analogs. (An analog is a man-made version of the natural insulin that your body makes.) They’re typically taken at mealtimes to control spikes in blood sugar that occur after eating. You take Humalog 15 minutes before a meal. You take NovoLog 5 to 10 minutes before a meal.

How to get humalog?

Another way you can receive Humalog is by having a healthcare provider give it to you as an intravenous injection (injection into your vein). Your doctor will determine the appropriate dosage for you.

What should I know about insulin lispro vs. Humalog?

Humalog is a brand-name medication that contains the active drug insulin lispro. Insulin lispro is also available as a generic medication.

Will I need to use this drug long term?

Humalog is meant to be used as a long-term treatment. If you and your doctor determine that Humalog is safe and effective for you, you’ll likely take it long term.

What is humalog mix?

Humalog Mix is given as a subcutaneous injection. Humalog Mix comes as a 50/50 mixture, containing 50% insulin lispro protamine and 50% insulin lispro. It’s also comes as a 75/25 mixture, containing 75% insulin lispro protamine and 25% insulin lispro.

How many types of Humalog are there?

There are two types of Humalog, and both are fast-acting insulins. But one kind also lasts a long time.

How many meals can you take with humalog?

Each dose of Humalog Mix is intended to cover two meals, or one meal and a snack. Depending on the dosage you need, you may have to have more than one injection of Humalog Mix. People with type 2 diabetes typically need high doses of insulin. If you need to take high doses of Humalog, talk with your doctor.

How long before a meal can you take humalog?

This means it can be administered 15 minutes before or with a meal. This has safety benefits over regular insulin that needs to be administered 30 minutes before food, especially if a meal is delayed or forgotten because hypoglycemia may result. Humalog has a shorter duration of effect than regular insulin.

Where to administer humalog?

Administer the injection just under the skin of your abdominal wall, thigh, upper arm, or buttocks. Rotate the injection site from one injection to the next. Never share your insulin pen with others. Humalog and other insulin lispros are less likely to cause hypoglycemia than regular insulin.

What is humalog insulin?

Humalog is a brand (trade) name for insulin lispro which is a fast-acting insulin that may be given to improve blood sugar control in adults and children over the age of three with diabetes. Humalog (insulin lispro) is an analog insulin that is a genetically modified human insulin.

How long does insulin last after subcutaneous injection?

Approved to treat type 1 and type 2 diabetes in adults and type 1 diabetes in children over the age of 3 years. Absorbed more rapidly after subcutaneous injection than regular insulin and lasts for less than five hours.

How long can humalog be stored?

Humalog that has been opened may be kept at room temperature (59 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit [15-30 degrees Celcius]) for up to 28 days. After dilution, storage times vary depending on the brand (check the manufacturer's product instructions).

What is the function of humalog?

The primary activity of insulin, which includes Humalog, is to allow cells throughout the body to uptake glucose (sugar) and convert it into a form that can be used by these cells for energy. Humalog belongs to the class of medicines known as insulins. 2. Upsides.

What are the side effects of Humalog?

If you are between the ages of 18 and 60, take no other medication or have no other medical conditions, side effects you are more likely to experience include: Low blood sugar levels (hypoglycemia) are the most common side effect of all insulins, including Humalog.

When to test blood sugar with humalog?

For example, you may need to test before and after meals and at bedtime. Your doctor will tell you when and how often you should test.

How long does it take for humalog to work?

Humalog should be taken within 15 minutes before eating or right after eating a meal.

What Is Humalog (insulin Lispro)?

Humalog is the brand name for a fast-acting insulin called insulin lispro. Humalog Mix 75/25, and Humalog Mix 50/50, contain mixtures of insulin lispro along with a second form of insulin called lispro protamine. Humalog is a medication used to treat both type 1 diabetes and type 2 diabetes. It works in several ways to lower your blood sugar, including by: Helping certain tissues in the body to store glucose in their cells Preventing the liver from producing more glucose Blocking breakdown of fats and proteins Helping to control the overall production and breakdown of sugar in the body The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) first approved Humalog in 1996. Humalog Warnings You shouldn't take Humalog if: You're allergic to Humalog or any of its inactive ingredients Your blood sugar is currently very low Also, it's never a good idea to share your insulin with another person. This includes sharing your Humalog KwikPen, or any insulin pens and insulin cartridges, regardless of whether you've changed needles. Ask your doctor about Humalog if you: Suffer from low blood sugar Have low levels of potassium in your blood Have kidney or liver problems Have heart failure Are taking thiazolidinediones (TZDs), like rosiglitazone-containing drugs such as Avandia, Avandryl, or Avandamet; or drugs that contain pioglitazone, like Actos, Actoplus Met, or Oseni Some insulin products can be mixed together, but Humalog isn't one of them. Never mix Humalog with any other insulins, even if you're using a form of Humalog that comes automatically mixed. Diabetes is a disease that's characterized by high blood sugar, which doctors refer to as hyperglycemia. In type 2 diabetes, the two main contributors to high blood sugar are insulin resistance and a drop in your body's production of insulin. Thes Continue reading >>

What is humalog used for?

Humalog (insulin lispro injection) is used to treat people with diabetes for the control of blood sugar. Humalog is used to treat people with diabetes for the control of blood sugar. Humalog Mix75/25 (75% insulin lispro protamine suspension and 25% insulin lispro injection) and Humalog Mix50/50 ...

Can you withdraw Humalog U-200?

Do NOT withdraw Humalog U-200 from the pen using a syringe. It could result in an overdose causing severe low blood sugar which may put your life in danger. Do not change the insulin you use without talking to your healthcare provider. Changes may make you more likely to experience low or high blood sugar.

Can you share a Humalog pen?

Do not share your Humalog, Humalog Junior, Humalog Mix75/25, or Humalog Mix50/50 KwikPens, cartridges, reusable pen compatible with Lilly 3 mL cartridges, or syringes with other people, even if the needle has been changed. You may give other people a serious infection or get a serious infection from them.

Can you give a person a serious infection with a humalog?

You may give other people a serious infection or get a serious infection from them. Humalog 200 units/mL KwikPen contains 2 times as much insulin (200 units/mL) in 1 mL as standard insulin (100 units/mL). The Humalog contained in the Humalog U-200 KwikPen should ONLY be injected with the Humalog U-200 KwikPen.

How long before meal to take Humalog?

If you use this medication with meal, use it within 15 minutes before or just after you eat.

What is humalog used for?

Insulin is a hormone that works by lowering levels of glucose (sugar) in the blood. Humalog is used to improve blood sugar control in adults and children with diabetes mellitus. Humalog is used to treat type 2 diabetes in adults.

Why do you need insulin at mealtime?

If you take insulin, you may need some at mealtime to help lower your blood sugar after you eat. But even between meals, you need insulin in small amounts to help keep blood sugar stable. This is where long-acting insulin comes in.

How long does insulin last?

It peaks in two to four hours, and its effects can last for five to eight hours. It is sometimes called regular-acting insulin.

Can you take humalog if you are allergic to insulin?

Before taking this medicine You should not use Humalog if you are allergic to insulin, or if you are having an episode of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). Humalog should not be given to a child younger than 3 years old. Humalog should not be used to treat type 2 diabetes in a child of any age.

Can you use humalog for low blood sugar?

You should not use Humalog if you are having an episode of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). Humalog is only part of a complete program of treatment that may also include diet, exercise, weight control, foot care, eye care, dental care, and testing your blood sugar.

Where to inject lipo?

Common injection sites include the stomach, buttocks, thighs, and upper arms. By rotating the site of injection, patients can avoid lipohypertrophy, a slight increase in the growth or size of fat cells under the skin. When lipohypertrophy occurs, a soft pillowy growth may form at the repeated-use injection site.

How long does it take for Humalog to work?

Regular is often thought of as "meal" Regular or "high blood sugar" Regular, but its action time of five to eight hours more closely resembles a long-acting insulin.

How long after humalog injection can you eat?

Depending on premeal blood sugars, Humalog can be injected 20 minutes before a meal, or with the first bite of food. Remember, though, that delayed eating is the most frequent cause of severe hypoglycemia.

How long does it take for humalog to lower blood sugar?

High blood sugar readings in the 300 range, for instance, can now be lowered to normal in as little as 45 minutes when the sliding scale insulin is added to the meal insulin and the meal is delayed to allow the blood sugar to fall.

What carbs are used to treat humalog lows?

Because of Humalog's fast action, it is important to rely on fast carbs to treat Humalog-induced lows. Fast carbs, like glucose, dextrose, or honey, may be required to reverse the rapid drops that can be encountered with this new insulin. Don't learn this lesson the hard way.

How long after insulin injection do you know if you overdosed?

Don't learn this lesson the hard way. If you are using Regular insulin, you know you've overdosed when a low blood sugar happens only two or three hours after an injection. And you know lows that happen five or six hours after an injection of Regular usually do not require much carbohydrate to treat.

How to determine how far blood sugar drops?

To determine how far the blood sugar will drop, simply count the total number of units of long and short acting insulin used during an average day.

How much sugar does 30 units of Humalog drop?

Someone on 30 total units a day would now divide 30 into 1800 to find their blood sugar is likely to drop 60 mg/dl on each unit of Humalog, rather than the 50 mg/dl drop seen with each unit of Regular.

What Is Humalog (insulin Lispro)?

Humalog is the brand name for a fast-acting insulin called insulin lispro. Humalog Mix 75/25, and Humalog Mix 50/50, contain mixtures of insulin lispro along with a second form of insulin called lispro protamine. Humalog is a medication used to treat both type 1 diabetes and type 2 diabetes. It works in several ways to lower your blood sugar, including by: Helping certain tissues in the body to store glucose in their cells Preventing the liver from producing more glucose Blocking breakdown of fats and proteins Helping to control the overall production and breakdown of sugar in the body The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) first approved Humalog in 1996. Humalog Warnings You shouldn't take Humalog if: You're allergic to Humalog or any of its inactive ingredients Your blood sugar is currently very low Also, it's never a good idea to share your insulin with another person. This includes sharing your Humalog KwikPen, or any insulin pens and insulin cartridges, regardless of whether you've changed needles. Ask your doctor about Humalog if you: Suffer from low blood sugar Have low levels of potassium in your blood Have kidney or liver problems Have heart failure Are taking thiazolidinediones (TZDs), like rosiglitazone-containing drugs such as Avandia, Avandryl, or Avandamet; or drugs that contain pioglitazone, like Actos, Actoplus Met, or Oseni Some insulin products can be mixed together, but Humalog isn't one of them. Never mix Humalog with any other insulins, even if you're using a form of Humalog that comes automatically mixed. Diabetes is a disease that's characterized by high blood sugar, which doctors refer to as hyperglycemia. In type 2 diabetes, the two main contributors to high blood sugar are insulin resistance and a drop in your body's production of insulin. Thes Continue reading >>

Which insulin is better, Humalog or Novolog?

The new Lantus insulin is an excellent choice when using these fast insulins to cover meals.

How to use insulin lispro?

If you use this medication with meal, use it within 15 minutes before or just after you eat. Take care to keep your blood sugar from getting too low, causing hypoglycemia. Symptoms of low blood sugar may include headache, nausea, hunger, confusion, drowsiness, weakness, dizziness, blurred vision, fast heartbeat, sweating, tremor, or trouble concentrating. Carry a piece of non-dietetic hard candy or glucose tablets with you in case you have low blood sugar. Also be sure your family and close friends know how to help you in an emergency. Also watch for signs of blood sugar that is too high (hyperglycemia). These symptoms include increased thirst, loss of appetite, increased urination, nausea, vomiting, drowsiness, dry skin, and dry mouth. Check your blood sugar levels and ask your doctor how to adjust your insulin doses if needed. Never share an injection pen or cartridge with another person. Sharing injection pens or cartridges can allow disease such as hepatitis or HIV to pass from one person to another. Insulin lispro is only part of a complete program of treatment that may also include diet, exercise, weight control, foot care, eye care, dental care, and testing your blood sugar. Follow your diet, medication, and exercise routines very closely. Changing any of these factors can affect your blood sugar levels. What is insulin lispro? Insulin is a hormone that is produced in the body. It works by lowering levels of glucose (sugar) in the blood. Insulin lispro is a fast-acting form of insulin. Insulin lispro is used to treat type 1 (insulin-dependent) diabetes in adults. It is usually given together with another long-acting Continue reading >>

What is mealtime insulin?

What is mealtime insulin? Mealtime insulins are fast-acting insulins that are taken immediately before or after meals. As you eat, your blood sugar naturally goes up, or “spikes.” Humalog® (a fast-acting insulin) works to manage those blood sugar spikes and may help keep your sugar levels in balance. Humalog should be taken within 15 minutes before eating or right after eating a meal. People who take Humalog will usually continue to take longer-acting insulin to help manage blood sugar levels at night and between meals. Taking mealtime insulin in addition to longer-acting insulin may help to control blood sugar levels throughout the day. Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) is the most common side effect of Humalog that may be severe and cause unconsciousness (passing out), seizures, and death. Test your blood sugar levels as your doctor instructs. Talk to your doctor about low blood sugar symptoms and treatment. The orange area shows how blood sugar levels typically rise after meals. The pattern of insulin action may vary in different individuals or within the same individual. Comparing types of insulin Take a look at our overview below to find out about the different types of insulin. You’ll notice that there are differences in when the types of insulin reach your bloodstream, when they “peak” in your body, and how long they can last (length of time the insulin keeps lowering your blood sugar). Fast-acting insulin (also called rapid-acting) is absorbed quickly and starts working in about 15 minutes to lower blood sugar after meals. Humalog fast-acting insulin should be taken 15 minutes before eating or right after eating a meal. Depending on the type of diabetes you have, you may need to take Humalog with a longer-acting insulin or oral anti-diabetes medication. Continue reading >>

What is the best insulin for high blood sugar?

Insulin lispro (brand name: Humalog) is the newest type of insulin on the market. It's a fast-acting insulin that starts working sooner than other insulins. It also reaches peak activity faster and goes away sooner. Insulin lispro helps keep your blood sugar levels from going too high after you eat.

How long does it take for insulin to release?

The second phase of insulin release is more gradual and occurs over the next hour and a half to three hours. The amount of insulin that is released matches the rise in blood glucose from the food that is eaten.

How long before eating can you take insulin?

The great advantage of fast insulins are that they match the "action time" for most meals. You can take them as you begin eating, rather than the 30 to 45 minutes prior to eating required of Regular. No longer do you need to accurately anticipate when you (or your young child with diabetes) will begin eating.

How long does it take for humalog to work?

Humalog should be taken within 15 minutes before eating or right after eating a meal.

When to test glucose with humalog?

With your doctor’s input, these variations may provide learning opportunities. Testing your blood sugar When using mealtime insulin like Humalog, you must test your blood sugar (glucose) regularly. For example, you may need to test before and after meals and at bedtime.

How Do I Correct My Blood Sugar Level With An Insulin Dose For Diabetes?

Obviously, no one can ever know that number exactly because it will vary somewhat from one situation to another. But with a little trial and error, you can usually figure out that 1 unit of insulin will lower your blood sugar by about 25 points, by 30 points, or by whatever you determine to be your number. You'll have to go through some trial-and-error testing, keeping careful records, just as you did with the insulin-to-carbohydrate ratio for food. For most people, it's reasonable to start with the assumption that 1 unit of insulin will lower the glucose by 50 points and then set a target for the upper-limit premeal number you'll accept. For example, you might decide to correct for any glucose number over 120 before meals and assume at the beginning that 1 unit of insulin will drop you by 50 points. If your premeal blood sugar level is between 121 and 170, or up to 50 points above the 120 mark, you'd take 1 extra unit of insulin; if it is between 171 and 220, or between 51 and 100 points above the 120 mark, you'd take 2 extra units; if it is between 221 and 270, or between 101 and 150 points above the 120 mark, you'd take 3 extra units, and so on. If your correction insulin isn't lowering your sugar as much as it should or is lowering it too much, you'll have to adjust your correction factor up or down. You'll have to try 1 unit for every 30 points of glucose above your target or 1 unit for 25 points until you can reliably reach the proper range. You may have to Continue reading >>

What Is Humalog (insulin Lispro)?

Humalog is the brand name for a fast-acting insulin called insulin lispro. Humalog Mix 75/25, and Humalog Mix 50/50, contain mixtures of insulin lispro along with a second form of insulin called lispro protamine. Humalog is a medication used to treat both type 1 diabetes and type 2 diabetes. It works in several ways to lower your blood sugar, including by: Helping certain tissues in the body to store glucose in their cells Preventing the liver from producing more glucose Blocking breakdown of fats and proteins Helping to control the overall production and breakdown of sugar in the body The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) first approved Humalog in 1996. Humalog Warnings You shouldn't take Humalog if: You're allergic to Humalog or any of its inactive ingredients Your blood sugar is currently very low Also, it's never a good idea to share your insulin with another person. This includes sharing your Humalog KwikPen, or any insulin pens and insulin cartridges, regardless of whether you've changed needles. Ask your doctor about Humalog if you: Suffer from low blood sugar Have low levels of potassium in your blood Have kidney or liver problems Have heart failure Are taking thiazolidinediones (TZDs), like rosiglitazone-containing drugs such as Avandia, Avandryl, or Avandamet; or drugs that contain pioglitazone, like Actos, Actoplus Met, or Oseni Some insulin products can be mixed together, but Humalog isn't one of them. Never mix Humalog with any other insulins, even if you're using a form of Humalog that comes automatically mixed. Diabetes is a disease that's characterized by high blood sugar, which doctors refer to as hyperglycemia. In type 2 diabetes, the two main contributors to high blood sugar are insulin resistance and a drop in your body's production of insulin. Thes Continue reading >>

How Much Insulin Do You Need?

Getty ImagesIf you have type 2 diabetes and your doctor thinks it might be a good time to start insulin therapy, there are two important factors to consider: How much insulin do you need to take? When do you need to take it? And both are very personal. "You can't paint everyone with type 2 diabetes with the same brush," says Mark Feinglos, MD, division chief of endocrinology, metabolism, and nutrition at the Duke University School of Medicine, in Durham, N.C. "You need to tailor the regimen to an individual's needs." A person with type 2 diabetes might start off on half a unit of insulin per kilogram of body weight per day, especially if there is not much known about the nature of his or her diabetes. Still, it is not unusual to need more like 1 unit, says Dr. Feinglos. (One unit per kilogram would be 68 units per day for someone who weighs 150 pounds, which is about 68 kilograms.) Testing Each DayI test morning, evening, and before meals Watch videoMore about blood sugar monitoring A lot depends on your specific health situation. People with type 2 diabetes suffer from insulin resistance, a situation in which the body loses its ability to use the hormone properly. Early in the course of the disease, the insulin-producing cells of the pancreas respond to insulin resistance by churning out even more of the hormone. Over time, though, insulin production declines. Taking insulin can help you overcome the body's insulin resistance, though many factors can affect your dosage. If your body is still sensitive to insulin but the pancreas is no longer making much insulin, for example, Dr. Feinglos says that you would require less insulin than someone who is really resistant to insulin. "But the most important issue is not necessarily how much you need to take," he adds. "Rather, Continue reading >>

How many points should you adjust your insulin correction factor?

You'll have to try 1 unit for every 30 points of glucose above your target or 1 unit for 25 points until you can reliably reach the proper range.

Does humalog insulin change over time?

Everyone’s experience with mealtime insulin is different, but there are some things you can look out for. Your Humalog dose will probably change over time. Your doctor gave you a starting dose, but most people need to increase their Humalog dose over time.

How It Works

Upsides

Downsides

Bottom Line

• Humalog is a fast-acting insulin that may be used in conjunction with either an intermediate or long-acting insulin for the treatment of diabetes in adults and type 1 diabetes in children over the age of 3. It acts faster than regular insulin and is less likely to cause hypoglycemia (low blood sugar levels).

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