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Only Available By Prescription
A generic drug is a copy of the brand-name drug with the same dosage, safety, strength, quality, consumption method, performance, and intended use. Before generics become available on the market, the generic company must prove it has the same active ingredients as the brand-name drug and works in the same way and in the same amount of time in the body.
The only differences between generics and their brand-name counterparts is that generics are less expensive and may look slightly different (eg. different shape or color), as trademarks laws prevent a generic from looking exactly like the brand-name drug.
Generics are less expensive because generic manufacturers don't have to invest large sums of money to develop a drug. When the brand-name patent expires, generic companies can manufacture a copy of the brand-name and sell it at a substantial discount.
Humalog (Insulin Lispro) is a rapid-acting human insulin analog used to manage hyperglycemia in individuals with diabetes mellitus. It is indicated for the treatment of both type 1 and type 2 diabetes and is typically used in combination with intermediate- or long-acting insulin. Due to its fast onset of action, Humalog is designed to be injected shortly before or immediately after meals to control postprandial blood glucose spikes. The formulation closely mimics physiological insulin response to food intake, making it a crucial component in intensive insulin therapy regimens aimed at achieving tight glycemic control.
| Fact Table | |
|---|---|
| Formula | C257H383N65O77S6 |
| License | FDA approved |
| Bioavailability | ~55–70% (subcutaneous injection) |
| Legal status | Prescription only |
| Chemical Name | Insulin lispro recombinant |
| Elimination half-life | ~1 hour |
| Dosage (Strength) | 100 units/mL (U-100), 200 units/mL (U-200) |
| Pregnancy | Category B – Generally safe; consult doctor |
| Brands | Humalog, Admelog, Lyumjev |
| Protein binding | Negligible |
| PubChem CID | 16133797 |
| MedlinePlus | a696016 |
| ChEBI | 70711 |
| ATC code | A10AB04 |
| DrugBank | DB00046 |
| KEGG | D04571 |
| Routes of administration | Subcutaneous injection, intravenous (in hospitals) |
Humalog should be administered by subcutaneous injection into the abdominal wall, thigh, upper arm, or buttocks within 15 minutes before or immediately after a meal. It may also be delivered via continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion (CSII) using an insulin pump. Dosage should be individualized based on the patient's metabolic needs, meal size, and blood glucose monitoring. Injection sites should be rotated within the same region to reduce the risk of lipodystrophy. Intravenous administration is possible in a clinical setting for the treatment of diabetic ketoacidosis or during surgical procedures.
Each mL of Humalog contains 100 units of insulin lispro. Inactive ingredients include glycerin, metacresol, zinc oxide, dibasic sodium phosphate, sodium hydroxide or hydrochloric acid (to adjust pH), and water for injection. The solution is clear, colorless, and sterile with a pH of approximately 7.0 to 7.8.
Humalog is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to insulin lispro or any of its excipients. It should not be used during episodes of hypoglycemia. Caution should be exercised when switching from other insulins, as changes in dosage or timing may be required.
Frequent monitoring of blood glucose levels is necessary when initiating or adjusting Humalog therapy. Care must be taken in patients with renal or hepatic dysfunction, as insulin requirements may be altered. The risk of hypoglycemia increases with changes in diet, activity level, or co-administration of other glucose-lowering medications. Beta-blockers may mask the symptoms of hypoglycemia. Patients should be educated on the signs and management of low blood sugar, and emergency glucagon kits should be readily available for those at risk.
Potential side effects of Humalog include:
Can Humalog be used with oral diabetes medications?
Yes. In type 2 diabetes, Humalog may be combined with oral agents like metformin, sulfonylureas, or SGLT2 inhibitors. Your provider will tailor the regimen.
Is Humalog the same as Novolog?
No. Both are rapid-acting insulins, but they contain different analogs:
Humalog: Insulin lispro
Novolog: Insulin aspart
They are similar in function but not interchangeable without a doctor’s advice.
Can I inject Humalog in the same area I use for Lantus?
Yes, but not in the exact same spot. Rotate within the region to reduce the risk of tissue damage and absorption issues.
Does Humalog interact with other medications?
Yes. Drugs like beta-blockers, corticosteroids, diuretics, and alcohol can affect blood sugar levels and insulin sensitivity. Always disclose all medications to your healthcare provider.
What’s the difference between Humalog U-100 and U-200?
U-100: Standard concentration (100 units/mL)
U-200: Double concentration (200 units/mL), used in the KwikPen
U-200 is helpful for people who require larger doses, as it delivers more insulin in half the volume.
Can I travel with Humalog?
Yes. Keep it in a cool, insulated bag, but do not freeze. Bring a doctor’s note, insulin prescription, and carry-on storage. Check airline and TSA rules in advance.
How long does a Humalog pen last once opened?
Once opened and kept at room temperature, a Humalog pen or vial is good for 28 days. After that, discard any remaining insulin even if it looks fine.
Is there a generic or lower-cost version of Humalog?
Yes. A biosimilar version called Insulin Lispro Injection is available. It is FDA-approved and interchangeable with Humalog, offering potential cost savings.
Can Humalog be used right before bedtime?
Generally, no. Humalog is intended for mealtime use, and using it before bed without eating can cause overnight hypoglycemia. Use only as prescribed and timed with food.
How does Humalog affect A1c levels?
By effectively controlling post-meal blood sugar spikes, Humalog helps reduce overall A1c levels — a key marker of long-term glucose control.
