Humalog Insulin (vl-7510) 10ml
Overview
What is this medicine?
How to Use This Medicine
To use this medication correctly, follow your doctor's instructions and read all the information provided. This medication is administered via injection into the fatty tissue under the skin. If you will be self-administering the injection, your doctor or nurse will provide guidance on the proper technique.
Administration Guidelines
Take the medication within 15 minutes before or immediately after a meal.
Rotate the injection site each time to avoid tissue damage.
Avoid injecting into skin that is thickened, has pits or lumps, or is irritated, tender, bruised, red, scaly, hard, scarred, or has stretch marks.
Do not use the medication if the solution appears cloudy, is leaking, or contains particles, or if the solution has changed color.
Safe Disposal and Handling
Dispose of used needles in a designated sharps disposal container.
Do not reuse needles or other injection equipment.
When the disposal container is full, follow local regulations for proper disposal.
If you have any questions or concerns, consult your doctor or pharmacist.
Diet and Exercise
Follow the diet and exercise plan recommended by your doctor.
Be aware of the steps to take if you miss a meal or do not eat as much as usual.
Important Administration Notes
Do not draw the medication into a syringe and store it for future use.
Some brands of this medication may be mixed with insulin NPH, but be sure to verify this with your doctor or pharmacist. Do not mix this medication with any other type of insulin.
If using an insulin pump, ensure you understand how to operate it and follow your doctor's instructions or the package insert. Regularly change the medication and pump parts as directed.
If the pump malfunctions, have an alternative method of insulin administration available and consult your doctor.
Storage and Disposal
Store unopened containers in the refrigerator. Do not freeze the medication, and do not use it if it has been frozen.
Missed Doses
Be aware of the steps to take if you forget to take a dose. If you are unsure, contact your doctor for guidance.
Lifestyle & Tips
- Always check your blood sugar levels as directed by your doctor.
- Follow your meal plan and carbohydrate counting instructions.
- Engage in regular physical activity as advised by your healthcare provider.
- Rotate injection sites to prevent skin problems (lipodystrophy).
- Never share needles, pens, or vials with others.
- Always have a source of fast-acting sugar (e.g., glucose tablets, juice) readily available to treat low blood sugar (hypoglycemia).
Available Forms & Alternatives
Available Strengths:
- Humalog Insulin (vl-7510) 10ml
- Humalog Mix 75/25 Vial 10ml
- Humalog Cartridge 3ml
- Humalog Mix 50/50 Inj, 10ml
- Humalog Mix 50/50 Kwikpen Inj 3ml
- Humalog 100 U/ml Kwik Pen Inj 3ml
- Humalog Mix 75/25 Kwikpen Inj 3ml
- Humalog 100u/ml Vial 3ml
- Humalog 200 U/ml Kwikpen Inj 3ml
- Humalog Jr 100u/ml Kwikpnhalf Unit
- Humalog Tempo Pen 100u/ml Inj 3ml
Dosing & Administration
Adult Dosing
Condition-Specific Dosing:
Pediatric Dosing
Dose Adjustments
Renal Impairment:
Hepatic Impairment:
Pharmacology
Mechanism of Action
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption:
Distribution:
Elimination:
Pharmacodynamics
Safety & Warnings
Side Effects
While rare, some people may experience severe and potentially life-threatening side effects when taking this medication. If you notice any of the following symptoms, contact your doctor or seek medical attention immediately:
Signs of an allergic reaction, such as:
+ Rash
+ Hives
+ Itching
+ Red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin (with or without fever)
+ Wheezing
+ Tightness in the chest or throat
+ Trouble breathing, swallowing, or talking
+ Unusual hoarseness
+ Swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat
Rarely, allergic reactions can be fatal.
Signs of low potassium levels, including:
+ Muscle pain or weakness
+ Muscle cramps
+ Abnormal heartbeat
Signs of infection, such as:
+ Fever
+ Chills
+ Severe sore throat
+ Ear or sinus pain
+ Cough
+ Increased or changed sputum production
+ Painful urination
+ Mouth sores
+ Wounds that won't heal
Thick skin, pits, or lumps at the injection site
Swelling in the arms or legs
Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), which may cause:
+ Dizziness or fainting
+ Blurred vision
+ Mood changes
+ Slurred speech
+ Headache
+ Fatigue or weakness
+ Shaking
+ Rapid heartbeat
+ Confusion
+ Hunger
+ Sweating
+ Seizures
If you experience any of these symptoms, contact your doctor immediately. Follow your doctor's instructions for managing low blood sugar, which may include taking glucose tablets, liquid glucose, or consuming certain fruit juices.
Other Possible Side Effects
Like all medications, this drug can cause side effects. Many people may not experience any side effects or may only have mild ones. If you notice any of the following side effects or any other unusual symptoms, contact your doctor or seek medical attention if they bother you or persist:
Weight gain
Flu-like symptoms
Nose or throat irritation
Common cold symptoms
Headache
Cough
Upset stomach
Stomach pain or diarrhea
Fatigue or weakness
* Irritation at the injection site
This is not an exhaustive list of possible side effects. If you have questions or concerns about side effects, contact your doctor. You can also report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-332-1088 or online at https://www.fda.gov/medwatch.
Seek Immediate Medical Attention If You Experience:
- Symptoms of severe low blood sugar (hypoglycemia): severe confusion, seizures, loss of consciousness. Seek immediate medical help.
- Symptoms of high blood sugar (hyperglycemia) or diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA): extreme thirst, frequent urination, nausea, vomiting, fruity breath, confusion. Contact your doctor.
- Signs of allergic reaction: rash, hives, itching, swelling of face/lips/tongue/throat, difficulty breathing. Seek immediate medical help.
- Signs of heart failure (if taking TZDs): unusual weight gain, swelling in ankles/feet, shortness of breath.
Before Using This Medicine
It is essential to inform your doctor about the following:
Any allergies you have, including allergies to this medication, its components, or other substances, such as foods or drugs. Be sure to describe the symptoms you experienced as a result of the allergy.
If you have low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), as this may affect your treatment plan.
Additionally, this medication may interact with other health conditions or medications. To ensure your safety, it is crucial to provide your doctor and pharmacist with a comprehensive list of:
All prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) medications you are currently taking
Any natural products or vitamins you are using
* Your complete medical history, including any health problems you have or have had in the past
Before starting, stopping, or changing the dose of any medication, including this one, consult with your doctor to confirm that it is safe for you to do so. This will help prevent potential interactions or adverse effects.
Precautions & Cautions
You are at risk for low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) while taking this drug. Severe hypoglycemia can lead to seizures, loss of consciousness, permanent brain damage, and even death. Discuss this risk with your doctor to understand how to manage it.
Additionally, this medication may cause low blood potassium levels (hypokalemia). If left untreated, hypokalemia can result in abnormal heart rhythms, severe breathing difficulties, and potentially death. Consult your doctor if you have concerns about this potential side effect.
Until you understand how this medication affects you, avoid driving and engaging in activities that require your full attention. Certain diabetes medications, such as pioglitazone or rosiglitazone, may increase the risk of heart failure, especially when used in combination with insulin. If you are taking one of these medications, discuss the potential risks with your doctor.
Ensure you are using the correct insulin product, as they come in various containers, including vials, cartridges, and pens. Understand how to measure and prepare your dose correctly. If you have any questions or concerns, contact your doctor or pharmacist for guidance.
Be aware that stress, such as fever, infection, injury, or surgery, can make it more challenging to control your blood sugar levels. Changes in physical activity, exercise, or diet can also impact your blood sugar control.
Wear a medical alert identification (ID) to inform others of your condition in case of an emergency.
Do not drive if you have experienced low blood sugar, as it can increase your risk of being involved in an accident. Monitor your blood sugar levels as directed by your doctor.
Regular blood tests are necessary to ensure your safety while taking this medication. Follow your doctor's instructions for getting your blood work checked and discuss any concerns or questions you may have.
Before consuming alcohol or using products containing alcohol, consult your doctor to understand the potential risks and interactions.
Never share your insulin product, including pens, cartridge devices, needles, or syringes, with another person, even if the needle has been changed. Sharing can spread infections, including those you may not be aware of having.
If you are 65 or older, use this medication with caution, as you may be more susceptible to side effects. Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding, as you will need to discuss the benefits and risks of this medication for both you and your baby.
Overdose Information
Overdose Symptoms:
- Severe hypoglycemia (low blood sugar)
- Confusion
- Dizziness
- Sweating
- Tremor
- Blurred vision
- Seizures
- Loss of consciousness
- Hypokalemia (low potassium levels)
What to Do:
For mild to moderate hypoglycemia, consume 15-20 grams of fast-acting carbohydrates (e.g., glucose tablets, fruit juice, regular soda). Recheck blood glucose in 15 minutes and repeat if necessary. For severe hypoglycemia (unconsciousness, seizures), administer glucagon if available and call emergency services (e.g., 911). After recovery, consume a snack or meal to prevent recurrence. Call 1-800-222-1222 (Poison Control) for further guidance.
Drug Interactions
Major Interactions
Moderate Interactions
- Oral antidiabetic agents (additive hypoglycemic effect)
- ACE inhibitors (may enhance insulin sensitivity)
- Angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) (may enhance insulin sensitivity)
- Salicylates (e.g., aspirin) (may enhance insulin sensitivity)
- Sulfonamide antibiotics (may enhance insulin sensitivity)
- Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) (may enhance insulin sensitivity)
- Somatostatin analogs (e.g., octreotide) (may decrease insulin requirements)
- Corticosteroids (may increase blood glucose, requiring increased insulin dose)
- Diuretics (e.g., thiazides, loop diuretics) (may increase blood glucose, requiring increased insulin dose)
- Sympathomimetics (e.g., decongestants, beta-2 agonists) (may increase blood glucose, requiring increased insulin dose)
- Growth hormone (may increase blood glucose, requiring increased insulin dose)
- Danazol (may increase blood glucose, requiring increased insulin dose)
- Oral contraceptives (may increase blood glucose, requiring increased insulin dose)
- Thyroid hormones (may increase blood glucose, requiring increased insulin dose)
Monitoring
Baseline Monitoring
Rationale: To establish baseline glycemic control and set treatment goals.
Timing: Prior to initiation of therapy.
Rationale: To establish baseline glucose levels.
Timing: Prior to initiation of therapy.
Rationale: To assess kidney function, as insulin clearance can be affected by renal impairment.
Timing: Prior to initiation and periodically thereafter.
Rationale: To assess liver function, as insulin metabolism can be affected by hepatic impairment.
Timing: Prior to initiation and periodically thereafter.
Routine Monitoring
Frequency: Multiple times daily (e.g., pre-meal, post-meal, bedtime, overnight) depending on patient needs and regimen.
Target: Individualized, typically 80-130 mg/dL pre-meal, <180 mg/dL 1-2 hours post-meal.
Action Threshold: Hypoglycemia (<70 mg/dL) or hyperglycemia (>180-250 mg/dL) requiring dose adjustment or intervention.
Frequency: Every 3-6 months (or more frequently if glycemic control is suboptimal or therapy is changed).
Target: Individualized, typically <7% for most adults.
Action Threshold: Above target range indicates need for therapy adjustment.
Frequency: Daily, ongoing patient education.
Target: N/A
Action Threshold: Any symptoms (e.g., sweating, tremor, confusion, hunger) require immediate glucose intake.
Frequency: Daily
Target: N/A
Action Threshold: Presence of lipodystrophy (lipoatrophy or lipohypertrophy) indicates need for site rotation.
Symptom Monitoring
- Symptoms of hypoglycemia (e.g., sweating, tremor, dizziness, confusion, hunger, irritability, blurred vision, headache, rapid heartbeat)
- Symptoms of hyperglycemia (e.g., increased thirst, increased urination, fatigue, blurred vision, weight loss)
- Signs of allergic reaction (e.g., rash, itching, swelling, difficulty breathing)
- Injection site reactions (e.g., redness, swelling, itching, pain, lipodystrophy)
Special Patient Groups
Pregnancy
Insulin lispro is generally considered safe and is often the preferred insulin for managing gestational diabetes or pre-existing diabetes in pregnancy. Careful glycemic control is crucial during pregnancy to minimize risks to both mother and fetus.
Trimester-Specific Risks:
Lactation
Insulin lispro is considered compatible with breastfeeding. Insulin is a normal component of breast milk and is not expected to cause adverse effects in a breastfed infant. Maternal insulin requirements may change during lactation.
Pediatric Use
Insulin lispro is approved for use in pediatric patients with diabetes mellitus. Dosing must be carefully individualized based on age, weight, activity level, and glycemic control goals. Close monitoring for hypoglycemia is essential.
Geriatric Use
No overall differences in safety or effectiveness have been observed between elderly and younger patients, but greater sensitivity to insulin's effects and increased risk of hypoglycemia may occur in some older individuals. Renal and hepatic function should be monitored, and dose adjustments may be necessary.
Clinical Information
Clinical Pearls
- Insulin lispro is a rapid-acting insulin; instruct patients to administer it 5-15 minutes before a meal or immediately after a meal to optimize postprandial glucose control.
- Emphasize the importance of consistent carbohydrate intake and meal timing relative to insulin administration.
- Educate patients on recognizing and treating hypoglycemia promptly.
- Stress the importance of proper injection technique and site rotation to prevent lipodystrophy.
- Patients should always carry a source of fast-acting carbohydrate.
- Humalog U-100 vials are for subcutaneous injection only; do not administer intravenously unless under strict medical supervision in a hospital setting (e.g., for DKA management).
- Unopened vials should be stored in a refrigerator (2°C to 8°C [36°F to 46°F]). Once opened, vials can be stored at room temperature (below 30°C [86°F]) for up to 28 days.
Alternative Therapies
- Other rapid-acting insulins: Insulin aspart (Novolog, Fiasp), Insulin glulisine (Apidra)
- Short-acting insulins: Regular human insulin (Humulin R, Novolin R)
- Long-acting insulins: Insulin glargine (Lantus, Toujeo, Basaglar), Insulin detemir (Levemir), Insulin degludec (Tresiba)
- Intermediate-acting insulins: NPH insulin (Humulin N, Novolin N)
- Oral antidiabetic agents (e.g., metformin, sulfonylureas, SGLT2 inhibitors, GLP-1 receptor agonists - often used in Type 2 diabetes, sometimes in combination with insulin)