Human Insulatard 40IU/ml Suspension for Injection
Manufacturer
Novo Nordisk India Pvt Ltd
Salt Composition
Insulin Isophane (40IU)
Key Information
Short Description
Human Insulatard 40IU/ml Suspension for Injection is used to improve blood sugar control in adults and children with type 1 and type 2 diabetes mellitus.
Dosage Form
Suspension for Injection
Introduction
Human Insulatard 40IU/ml Suspension for Injection is often prescribed along with short-acting insulin or other oral diabetes medicines. Your doctor or nurse will teach you the correct way of injecting it under the skin. Don’t stop taking it unless your doctor tells you to. It is only part of a treatment program that should also include a healthy diet, regular exercise, and weight reduction as advised by your doctor.
Directions for Use
Your doctor or nurse will give you this medicine. Kindly do not self-administer.
How it works
Human Insulatard 40IU/ml Suspension for Injection is an intermediate-acting insulin that starts working in 1-2 hours after injection. It works similar to the insulin that is produced by the body. Insulin facilitates reuptake of sugar in muscle and fat cells and also suppresses the production of sugar in the liver. This helps to lower the blood sugar levels in diabetes mellitus.
Quick Tips
Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar level) is a common side effect. Hence regular monitoring of blood sugar levels is required while taking this medicine. Injection below the skin of the abdomen results in faster absorption than other injection sites. Injection sites must be rotated to prevent hard lumps from developing at one site. Opened vials/cartridge are good at room temperature for up to 4 weeks while unopened vials must be placed in the refrigerator (2°C–8°C).
Frequently asked questions
How does biphasic isophane insulin work?
Biphasic isophane insulin, also known as insulin isophane, is a recombinant human insulin analogue that acts by replacing the normal production of insulin and helping to transfer sugar from the blood into other body tissues where it is utilized to generate energy. It also stops the liver from producing more sugar. This intermediate-acting insulin preparation starts acting within an hour or two of injection, reaches a peak activity that lasts up to 7 hours, and has an overall duration of action ranging from 18 to 24 hours.
What is Human Insulatard 40IU/ml Suspension for Injection? How is it made?
Human Insulatard 40IU/ml Suspension for Injection is a man-made version of human insulin produced using recombinant DNA technology. It is a sterile, aqueous, clear, and colorless solution containing insulin aspart along with other constituents such as glycerin, phenol, metacresol, zinc, and sodium chloride.
Can Human Insulatard 40IU/ml Suspension for Injection cause hypoglycemia? How do I prevent it?
Yes, hypoglycemia is a common side effect of Human Insulatard 40IU/ml Suspension for Injection. It is more likely to occur if you miss or delay meals, drink alcohol, over-exercise, or take other antidiabetic medications. To prevent hypoglycemia, ensure consistent meal timing and amounts, take snacks as needed, regularly monitor blood sugar levels, and carry glucose tablets, honey, or fruit juice with you. Consult your doctor if you notice any fluctuations in your blood sugar levels.
What are the other side effects of Human Insulatard 40IU/ml Suspension for Injection? How to prevent them?
Common side effects of Human Insulatard 40IU/ml Suspension for Injection include injection site reactions such as redness, itching, pain, and swelling. These reactions are usually temporary and resolve on their own. Rarely, it can cause lipodystrophy, which includes lipohypertrophy (thickening of adipose tissue) and lipoatrophy (thinning of adipose tissue), and may affect insulin absorption. Rotate insulin injection or infusion sites within the same region to reduce the risk of lipodystrophy.
How should Human Insulatard 40IU/ml Suspension for Injection be used?
Human Insulatard 40IU/ml Suspension for Injection should be injected subcutaneously, under the skin. Your doctor will show you the area of your skin where you should inject it. Rotate between typical injection sites, such as the abdomen, buttocks, upper legs, or upper arms. Never inject Humalog into a muscle or vein. Move to a new injection site every week or two, and use the same area for at least a week to avoid extreme blood sugar variations.
Is Human Insulatard 40IU/ml Suspension for Injection given as an injection into a vein (intravenous)?
Yes, in specific situations such as diabetic ketoacidosis or severe hyperglycemia, Human Insulatard 40IU/ml Suspension for Injection may be given as an injection into a vein (intravenous) under the continuous monitoring of blood sugar levels in a hospital setting.
Is Human Insulatard 40IU/ml Suspension for Injection safe to use in pregnancy?
Yes, Human Insulatard 40IU/ml Suspension for Injection is safe to use in pregnancy if prescribed by a doctor. However, inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to conceive, or breastfeeding before using Human Insulatard 40IU/ml Suspension for Injection. You may require dose modifications, and your doctor will advise you to monitor your blood sugar levels regularly.
When does the dosage of Human Insulatard 40IU/ml Suspension for Injection need to be changed?
Consult your doctor for dose adjustment if you experience weight gain or loss, increased stress, illness, changes in diet, or if you are taking alcohol. Your dose may also change if you have recently changed your exercise regime or are taking any medicines. Be vigilant about changes you experience while first using Human Insulatard 40IU/ml Suspension for Injection, and consult your doctor if you notice any severe side effects.
