Description
Humalog is a fast-acting form of insulin which is used to treat adults with type 1 diabetes. It works by lowering blood glucose levels in people whose body’s either cannot properly use the insulin it produces or do not make enough insulin to meet the body’s requirements.
Keep Humalog in its carton and keep it refrigerated, away from light. Dispose of any insulin left after the expiration date. Unopened injected pens, vials or cartridges may be stored at room temperature, away from heat and light, for up to 28 days. After first use of “in-use” vials, store them in the refrigerator, away from light. Be sure to use within 28 days. Do not store “in-use” cartridges or injection pens in the refridgerator. Keep it at room temperature and be sure to use it within 28 days. Do not freeze the medication. Should it become frozen, dispose of the medication; do not use it.
Consult with your physician before using Humalog and tell them if you have any medical conditions, allergies, or if you are taking any other medications. Be sure to inform them if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant or breast-feeding.
Do not use Humalog if it has any particles in it or if it has changed colors. You should wear a bracelet or necklace or carry a card indicating that you have diabetes and are taking insulin. You may experience hypoglycemia if meals are missed, too much insulin is used or you exercise more than usual. If you are taking Humalog, you should always carry a quick source of sugar with you as symptoms of hypoglycemia can occur suddenly. People who are unable to take sugar by mouth or are unconscious might require an injection of glucagon or treatment with intravenous glucose.
Use Humalog as directed by your physician. Do not use more than has been prescribed and do not use it for a longer period than instructed by your doctor. Follow the directions on the medication label for exact instructions. Humalog is administered as an injection, using an insulin pump or a needle and syringe. You will be given exact directions from your doctor, pharmacist or nurse as to where and how you should inject the medication. If you do not completely understand how to self-administer the injection and dispose of used needles and syringes properly, do not self-inject. If you take Humalog with a meal, use it 15 minutes immediately before or after you eat. It should be clear, colorless and thin. Use a new injection site on your skin each time you use Humalog. Do not inject the medication into the same site two times in a row. If you are using an insulin pump, do not mix or dilute Humalog with any other insulin. If you think your infusion pump is not working in any way,
Do not use Humalog if it has any particles in it or if it has changed colors. Do not inject the medication into the same site two times in a row. Never share a cartridge or injection pen with someone else. This can allow for diseases such as hepatitis or HIV to pass from person to person. Do not change your dose without consulting with your physician. Avoid drinking alcohol while taking this medication as it can cause your blood sugar levels to become extremely low. Do not expose Humalog to high heat.
Severe side effects include: changes in vision; chills; confusion; dizziness; drowsiness; loss of consciousness; mood changes headache; seizures; severe allergic reactions (rash; hives; itching; difficulty breathing; tightness in the chest; swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue; wheezing; muscle pain); fainting; fast or irregular heartbeat; slurred speech; swelling; tremor; trouble concentrating; trouble breathing; unusual hunger; unusual sweating; weakness; wheezing.
Common Side effects include: itching; swelling; redness; or mild pain at the injection site.
Other side effects may include: anxiety; dizziness; confusion; drowsiness; blurred vision; headache; hunger; difficulty speaking; difficulty concentrating; nausea; fast heartbeat; numbness or tingling of the lips or tongue; sweating; tiredness; nervousness; trembling; weakness