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Brand Names: Humulin R, Novolin R, Novolin R Innolet, Novolin R PenFill, ReliOn/Novolin R

Generic Name: insulin regular (Pronunciation: IN soo lin REG yoo lar)

• What is insulin regular (Humulin R)?
• What are the possible side effects of insulin regular (Humulin R)?
• What is the most important information I should know about insulin regular (Humulin R)?
• What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before using insulin regular (Humulin R)?
• How should I use insulin regular (Humulin R)?
• What happens if I miss a dose (Humulin R)?
• What happens if I overdose (Humulin R)?
• What should I avoid while using insulin regular (Humulin R)?
• What other drugs will affect insulin regular (Humulin R)?
• Where can I get more information?

What is insulin regular (Humulin R)?

Insulin is a hormone that is produced in the body. It works by lowering levels of glucose (sugar) in the blood. Insulin regular is a long-acting form of insulin that is slightly different from other forms of insulin that are not man-made.

Insulin regular is used to treat diabetes.

Insulin regular may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.

What are the possible side effects of insulin regular (Humulin R)?

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of insulin allergy: itching skin rash over the entire body, wheezing, trouble breathing, fast heart rate, sweating, or feeling like you might pass out.

Hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar, is the most common side effect of insulin. Symptoms of low blood sugar may include headache, nausea, hunger, confusion, drowsiness, weakness, dizziness, blurred vision, fast heartbeat, sweating, tremor, trouble concentrating, confusion, or seizure (convulsions). Watch for signs of low blood sugar. Carry a piece of non-dietetic hard candy or glucose tablets with you in case you have low blood sugar.

Tell your doctor if you have itching, swelling, redness, or thickening of the skin where you inject insulin.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Tell your doctor about any unusual or bothersome side effect. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What is the most important information I should know about insulin regular (Humulin R)?

Take care to keep your blood sugar from getting too low, causing hypoglycemia. Symptoms of low blood sugar may include headache, nausea, hunger, confusion, drowsiness, weakness, dizziness, blurred vision, fast heartbeat, sweating, tremor, or trouble concentrating. Carry a piece of non-dietetic hard candy or glucose tablets with you in case you have low blood sugar. Also be sure your family and close friends know how to help you in an emergency.

Also watch for signs of blood sugar that is too high (hyperglycemia). These symptoms include increased thirst, loss of appetite, increased urination, nausea, vomiting, drowsiness, dry skin, and dry mouth. Check your blood sugar levels and ask your doctor how to adjust your insulin doses if needed.

Never share an injection pen or cartridge with another person. Sharing injection pens or cartridges can allow disease such as hepatitis or HIV to pass from one person to another.

Insulin is only part of a complete program of treatment that may also include diet, exercise, weight control, foot care, eye care, dental 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.

Do not change the brand of insulin or syringe you are using without first talking to your doctor or pharmacist. Some brands of insulin regular and syringes are interchangeable, while others are not. Your doctor and/or pharmacist know which brands can be substituted for one another.