Humalog (Insulin Lispro)

Humalog is indicated for the treatment of diabetes mellitus where rapid reduction of blood glucose is required.

• Type 1 diabetes mellitus
• Type 2 diabetes mellitus
• Gestational diabetes
• Mealtime (prandial) insulin coverage
• Correction of hyperglycemia
• Use in insulin pump therapy (continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion)

• Insulin lispro binds to insulin receptors on muscle, adipose and hepatic cells, activating the receptor’s tyrosine kinase activity. This triggers intracellular signaling that promotes translocation of GLUT4 transporters to the cell surface, increasing glucose uptake, while simultaneously suppressing hepatic gluconeogenesis and glycogenolysis, resulting in a rapid decline in circulating blood glucose levels.

Adverse reactions to Humalog can range from mild to severe and should be monitored during therapy.

Common

• Hypoglycemia (low blood glucose)
• Injection‑site pain, redness or swelling
• Lipodystrophy at injection sites
• Transient weight gain
• Mild nausea

Serious

• Severe hypoglycemia with neuroglycopenic symptoms
• Allergic reactions including anaphylaxis
• Hypokalemia (low potassium levels)
• Edema or fluid retention

Before starting Humalog, consider the following safety points.

• Verify blood glucose levels frequently to avoid hypoglycemia.
• Adjust dose when sick, exercising, or changing diet.
• Use caution in patients with renal or hepatic impairment.
• Pregnant or breastfeeding women should discuss risks; category B.
• Do not use if the solution is cloudy, discolored, or contains particles.
• Store unopened vials in a refrigerator; once opened, keep at controlled room temperature for up to 28 days.

Humalog may interact with other medicines, affecting glucose control or safety.

Avoid

• Concurrent use of other rapid‑acting insulins without dose adjustment.
• Beta‑blockers that mask hypoglycemia symptoms.
• MAO‑A inhibitors that can potentiate insulin’s glucose‑lowering effect.

Use with caution

• Oral antidiabetic agents (e.g., sulfonylureas, meglitinides) – increased hypoglycemia risk.
• Thiazide diuretics – may raise blood glucose.
• Corticosteroids – may require higher insulin doses.
• Alcohol – can cause delayed hypoglycemia.
• Concomitant potassium‑lowering drugs – monitor serum potassium.