Indications
Insulin (Human) 50/50 is a premixed insulin containing 50% short-acting (soluble or regular) human insulin and 50% intermediate-acting (isophane or NPH) human insulin. It is used to control blood sugar in people with diabetes who need insulin, especially those whose blood sugar rises sharply after meals and who prefer a twice-daily injection routine.
How It Works
Insulin is the hormone that moves sugar from the blood into the body’s cells. The short-acting half starts working within about 30 minutes and covers the meal taken after the injection. The intermediate-acting half works more slowly and lasts longer, providing background insulin for several hours. Together they lower blood sugar for most of the day.
Dosage and Administration
The dose is individual and is set by your doctor, as prescribed, based on blood sugar readings. It is usually injected under the skin of the abdomen, thigh or upper arm about 30 minutes before breakfast and before the evening meal. Before each injection, gently roll and tip the vial or pen until the liquid is evenly cloudy; do not shake hard. Change the injection site each time. Never inject into a vein. Do not change your dose without advice.
Interactions
Many medicines affect blood sugar. Other diabetes medicines, ACE inhibitors (such as Enalapril), Aspirin in high doses, some antidepressants and alcohol can lower blood sugar further. Corticosteroids (such as Prednisolone), thiazide diuretics, thyroid hormone and some antipsychotics can raise blood sugar. Beta blockers such as Propranolol can hide the warning signs of low blood sugar. Pioglitazone with insulin may cause fluid retention and heart failure.
Contraindications
Do not inject if your blood sugar is low (hypoglycaemia) at the time, or if you are allergic to human insulin or any ingredient of the product.
Side Effects
- Low blood sugar (hypoglycaemia): shaking, sweating, fast heartbeat, hunger, confusion, irritability
- Redness, swelling or itching at the injection site
- Lumps or dents under the skin if the same site is used often
- Weight gain
- Temporary blurred vision or ankle swelling when starting
Treat low blood sugar at once with sugar, glucose tablets or a sweet drink, then a snack. Get urgent medical help if the person becomes drowsy, confused, unable to swallow or unconscious, has a seizure, or if you have very high blood sugar with vomiting, deep fast breathing or a fruity smell on the breath. Also seek help for signs of a serious allergic reaction.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Human insulin is the preferred treatment for diabetes in pregnancy and is safe while breastfeeding. Insulin needs change during pregnancy and after delivery, so blood sugar must be checked closely and doses adjusted by your doctor.
Precautions and Warnings
Check your blood sugar regularly and learn the signs of low blood sugar; always carry sugar. Do not skip meals after injecting. Illness, exercise, alcohol and changes in diet can change insulin needs. Never share pens or needles. Check the insulin strength (for example 100 IU/ml) and use the matching syringe. Take care with driving.
Overdose
Too much insulin causes low blood sugar, which can lead to seizures, unconsciousness and death if untreated. Give sugar by mouth if the person is awake; if unconscious, call emergency services immediately.
Therapeutic Class
Antidiabetic; premixed human insulin (short-acting plus intermediate-acting).
Storage
Unopened: store in a refrigerator at 2 to 8°C; do not freeze. In use: can be kept below 25 to 30°C, away from heat and light, for the time stated on the pack (usually 4 to 6 weeks). Keep out of the reach of children. Do not use if frozen or if clumps remain after mixing.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.