HUMINSULIN 50/50 (40 IU/ML)

Description

HUMINSULIN 50/50 (40 IU/ML) is a biphasic human insulin suspension, meaning it’s a pre-mixed combination of two types of human insulin:

• 50% Soluble Human Insulin: This is a short-acting insulin, designed to quickly lower blood sugar spikes after meals.
• 50% Isophane Human Insulin (NPH): This is an intermediate-acting insulin, providing a more prolonged effect to manage blood sugar levels between meals and overnight.

The “40 IU/ML” indicates its concentration: 40 International Units of insulin per milliliter of suspension.

What it’s used for:

• Diabetes Mellitus (Type 1 and Type 2): It is prescribed for adults and children with both type 1 and type 2 diabetes to help improve overall blood sugar control throughout the day and night. The 50/50 mix aims to provide both immediate post-meal coverage and a sustained basal effect.

How it works:

• The soluble human insulin rapidly enters the bloodstream, helping to manage the rise in blood sugar that occurs after eating.
• The isophane human insulin (NPH), which is absorbed more slowly, provides a longer-lasting effect to control blood sugar levels between meals and during fasting periods (like overnight).

Administration:

• Vial: Huminsulin 50/50 typically comes in a vial, meaning it needs to be drawn into an insulin syringe for injection. It’s crucial to use an insulin syringe that matches the concentration (U-40 syringe for 40 IU/ML insulin).
• Subcutaneous Injection: It is injected under the skin (subcutaneously) into areas such as the abdomen, thigh, upper arm, or buttocks.
• Timing: It is usually injected 30 minutes before a meal, often once or twice daily, as directed by your healthcare provider. It’s important to consume a meal or snack containing carbohydrates within 30 minutes after the injection.
• Mixing Before Use: As it’s a suspension, the vial must be gently rolled and inverted (e.g., 10 times) before each use to ensure the two insulin components are evenly mixed and the suspension appears uniformly cloudy. Do not shake vigorously.
• Do NOT dilute or mix: This specific formulation should not be diluted or mixed with other insulins.
• Not for IV or Pumps: It is not typically used for intravenous administration or in insulin pumps.

Important Considerations and Side Effects:

• Hypoglycemia (Low Blood Sugar): This is the most common and serious side effect. Symptoms can include sweating, shakiness, confusion, headache, dizziness, rapid heartbeat, and hunger. Patients should monitor their blood sugar levels regularly and carry a source of fast-acting sugar (like glucose tablets or juice) to treat low blood sugar immediately. The risk is higher if meals are delayed or missed after injection.
• Weight Gain: Some weight gain can occur with insulin therapy.
• Injection Site Reactions: Redness, pain, swelling, itching, or the formation of lumps/pits (lipodystrophy) at the injection site are possible. Rotating injection sites helps minimize these.
• Allergic Reactions: Rare but possible severe allergic reactions can occur.
• Alcohol Consumption: Alcohol can significantly affect blood sugar levels and should be consumed with caution or avoided as advised by your doctor.
• Storage: Unopened vials should be stored in a refrigerator (2°C-8°C). Once opened, they can usually be stored at room temperature (check the specific product leaflet, typically below 30°C for a limited period, e.g., 28 days). Do not freeze.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Consult your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, as dosage adjustments may be necessary.
• Driving/Operating Machinery: Be aware that low or high blood sugar can impair your concentration and ability to react.

Always consult your doctor, pharmacist, or diabetes educator for personalized medical advice, proper training on injection technique, and comprehensive management of your diabetes. This information is for general knowledge and should not replace professional medical consultation.