insulin regular, concentrated (U-500)

Brand name(s):

insulin regular, Humulin R (Concentrated)

What is the most important information I should know about concentrated insulin?

Concentrated insulin works differently from other types of insulin, and its effects may last for up to 24 hours after a single dose. The length of insulin effect will depend on your dose, your level of physical activity, and many other factors. Always check your medicine when it is refilled to make sure you have received the correct brand and type prescribed by your doctor. Ask the pharmacist if you have any questions about the medicine you receive at the pharmacy.

Take care to keep your blood sugar from getting too low, causing hypoglycemia. Symptoms of hypoglycemia may include headache, nausea, hunger, confusion, drowsiness, weakness, dizziness, blurred vision, fast heartbeat, sweating, tremor, or trouble concentrating. Carry a piece of hard candy (not sugar-free) or glucose tablets with you in case you have low blood sugar. Be sure your family and close friends know how to help you in an emergency.

If your blood sugar gets too high (hyperglycemia), you may have symptoms such as increased thirst, loss of appetite, fruity breath odor, increased urination, drowsiness, dry skin, nausea, and vomiting. Call your doctor right away if you have any of these symptoms.

While you are using concentrated insulin, do not use any other type of insulin or diabetes medications you take by mouth unless your doctor tells you to.

Insulin is only part of a complete program of treatment that may also include diet, exercise, weight control, foot care, eye care, dental care, overall proper health care, and testing your blood sugar. Follow your diet, medication, and exercise routines very closely. Changing any of these factors can affect your blood sugar levels.

What is concentrated insulin?

Concentrated insulin is a man-made form of a hormone that is produced in the body. It works by lowering levels of glucose (sugar) in the blood. Concentrated insulin (U-500) is a long-acting form of insulin that is different from other forms that are made from animal insulin.

Concentrated insulin is used to treat type 1 (insulin-dependent) diabetes in people with significant daily insulin needs (more than 200 units per day).

Concentrated insulin may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before using concentrated insulin?

Measure each dose of this medication carefully. Concentrated insulin contains 500 units of insulin in each milliliter. This is five times the concentration of other Humulin or Novolin insulins. Using too much concentrated insulin can cause severely low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), which could lead to insulin shock or death. You should not use concentrated insulin if you are in a state of hypoglycemia. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant while you are using concentrated insulin. It is not known whether concentrated insulin passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

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