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Get my coupon now No thanks, I'd like to pay full priceAlso Known as Novorapid
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.
NovoLog (Insulin Aspart) is a rapid-acting insulin analog used to manage high blood sugar in individuals with diabetes mellitus. It is approved for use in both type 1 and type 2 diabetes in adults and children. NovoLog begins to act within 10 to 20 minutes of subcutaneous injection, peaks in about 1 to 3 hours, and has a duration of action of 3 to 5 hours. Its quick onset makes it effective in controlling postprandial glucose excursions. NovoLog is commonly used in combination with intermediate- or long-acting basal insulin and is integral to flexible insulin regimens that closely replicate natural insulin secretion patterns.
| Fact Table | |
|---|---|
| Formula | C256H381N65O79S6 |
| License | FDA approved |
| Bioavailability | ~60–70% (subcutaneous injection) |
| Legal status | Prescription only |
| Chemical Name | Insulin aspart recombinant |
| Elimination half-life | ~1.5 hours |
| Dosage (Strength) | 100 units/mL (U-100) |
| Pregnancy | Category B – Generally safe; consult doctor |
| Brands | NovoLog, Fiasp |
| Protein binding | Negligible |
| PubChem CID | 16132451 |
| MedlinePlus | a601236 |
| ChEBI | 70710 |
| ATC code | A10AB05 |
| DrugBank | DB01307 |
| KEGG | D08174 |
| Routes of administration | Subcutaneous injection, intravenous (in clinical settings) |
NovoLog should be injected subcutaneously in the abdomen, thigh, upper arm, or buttocks within 5 to 10 minutes before a meal. The dosage must be individualized based on the patient’s glucose monitoring, dietary intake, physical activity, and insulin sensitivity. It can also be administered through continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion (CSII) systems or intravenously in a controlled clinical setting. To minimize the risk of lipodystrophy and ensure consistent absorption, injection sites should be rotated within the same region.
Each mL of NovoLog contains 100 units of insulin aspart. Inactive components include glycerol, phenol, metacresol, zinc, sodium chloride, disodium phosphate dihydrate, and water for injection. The formulation may be adjusted to a pH of 7.2 using hydrochloric acid or sodium hydroxide. The solution is sterile, clear, and colorless.
NovoLog is contraindicated in patients with hypersensitivity to insulin aspart or any component of the formulation. It must not be used during episodes of hypoglycemia or administered via insulin infusion pumps with formulations other than those specifically approved for CSII.
Close blood glucose monitoring is essential, particularly when initiating or adjusting NovoLog therapy. Hypoglycemia remains the most common adverse effect, especially with missed meals or unanticipated physical activity. Insulin requirements may be reduced in patients with renal or hepatic impairment. Changes in insulin regimen should be made cautiously and under medical supervision. Some drugs, such as beta-blockers, may mask the symptoms of hypoglycemia, necessitating additional patient education and monitoring.
Reported side effects of NovoLog include:
Can I use Novolog in both type 1 and type 2 diabetes?
Yes. Novolog is approved for:
Type 1 diabetes: As part of a basal-bolus insulin regimen
Type 2 diabetes: When oral meds are insufficient or alongside long-acting insulin
How should I rotate Novolog injection sites?
Rotate between areas such as the abdomen, thighs, upper arms, and buttocks. Avoid injecting into the same exact spot to reduce the risk of lipodystrophy (fatty tissue changes).
What should I do in case of a Novolog overdose?
An overdose may cause severe hypoglycemia. Take glucose tablets, sugary drinks, or snacks immediately. If unconscious or having seizures, someone should give glucagon and call emergency services.
What factors affect how Novolog works?
Factors include:
Injection site
Timing of meals
Physical activity
Kidney/liver function
These can alter absorption and effectiveness.
Can Novolog be used in a sliding scale regimen?
Yes. Novolog is often used in sliding scale or correctional dosing based on current blood sugar levels. Your healthcare provider will create a personalized chart.
Is it safe to reuse needles or pens?
No. Reusing needles increases the risk of infection, tissue damage, and inaccurate dosing. Always use a new sterile needle for each injection.
What should Novolog look like before use?
Novolog should be clear and colorless. Do not use it if it looks cloudy, discolored, or has particles — dispose of it and use a new vial or pen.
Can I travel with Novolog?
Yes. Carry it in your hand luggage, not checked bags. Use a cooler bag if needed, but avoid freezing. Bring your prescription and a doctor’s letter when flying.
Does Novolog require frequent blood sugar monitoring?
Yes. Since Novolog affects blood sugar quickly, frequent blood glucose checks are essential to avoid lows and ensure correct dosing.
How does Novolog help lower A1c?
By effectively reducing post-meal blood sugar spikes, Novolog plays a key role in lowering your average blood glucose (A1c) over time.
