Insulin Lispro (Injection)

Insulin Lispro, Recombinant (IN-su-lin LYE-sproe, re-KOM-bi-nant)

Treats diabetes mellitus (sugar diabetes). This type of insulin is similar to regular insulin, but acts in the body more quickly.

Brand Name(s):

Humalog, Lispro-PFC, Humalog Pen
There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to any type of insulin or if you are having an episode of low blood sugar.

How to Use This Medicine:

Injectable

• Your doctor will prescribe your exact dose and tell you how often it should be given. This medicine is given as a shot under your skin.
• This medicine comes with patient instructions. Read and follow these instructions carefully. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.
• You will be taught how to give your medicine at home. Make sure you understand all instructions before giving yourself an injection. Do not use more medicine or use it more often than your doctor tells you to.
• You will be shown the body areas where this shot can be given. Use a different body area each time you give yourself a shot. Keep track of where you give each shot to make sure you rotate body areas.
• If you are using this insulin at meal times, give your injection within 15 minutes before you eat or immediately after you eat.
• Do not change the brand or dose of your insulin unless your doctor tells you to. When you receive a new supply of insulin, check the label to be sure you have received the correct insulin.
• You should not use the insulin if it looks cloudy, grainy, lumpy, discolored, or is unusually thick or sticky.
• Use a new needle and syringe each time you inject your medicine.
• Never share your medicine with anyone.

If a dose is missed:

• Ask your doctor what to do if you miss a dose of insulin.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

• Throw away used needles in a hard, closed container that the needles cannot poke through. Keep this container out of the reach of children and pets.
• Store unused bottles, cartridges, and pens in the refrigerator. Do not freeze. If you cannot store the medicine in a refrigerator, it may be kept in a cool place, away from heat and direct light. If Humalog® is not refrigerated, it is good for only 28 days.
• Throw the medicine away after the expiration date has passed.
• Keep all medicine out of the reach of children.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• Some medicines can make it harder for you to control your diabetes. Make sure your doctor knows about all other medicines you are taking.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have kidney disease.
• Insulin lispro starts to work faster than some other types of insulin, and its effects do not last as long. Your doctor may also prescribe a longer-acting insulin for you to use.
• Follow your doctor's orders about diet, exercise, and checking your blood sugar. Your doctor may want to check your progress and blood sugar at regular visits. Be sure to keep all appointments.
• You may have low blood sugar while you are using insulin, especially if you are ill, miss a meal, exercise for a long time, or drink alcohol. Signs of low blood sugar include feeling shaky, weak, drowsy, cold, confused, or very hungry. You may sweat or have blurred vision, a fast heartbeat, trouble concentrating, or a headache.
• Ask your doctor what to do if you have low blood sugar. You will need to control it quickly. Teach your friends, co-workers, or family members what they can do to help you in case you have low blood sugar.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in face or hands, swelling or tingling in the mouth or throat, tightness in chest, trouble breathing

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Redness, itching, swelling, or skin changes where the shot is given

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor.