HUMULIN N (NPH Insulin) is a crystalline suspension of human insulin with protamine and zinc providing an intermediate-acting insulin with a slower onset of action and a longer duration of activity (up to 24 hours) than that of regular insulin. HUMULIN N (NPH Insulin) (aka HUMULIN N) Insulin Pens require a valid prescription from a physician. HUMULIN N (NPH Insulin) Insulin PEN contain only NPH Insulin. HUMULIN N (NPH Insulin) comes in a 5 x 3 ml size. HUMULIN N (NPH Insulin) should be stored in the refrigerator (between 2 to 8 degress Celsius), but can be stored at room temperature for up to 30 days. HUMULIN N (NPH Insulin) Penfil are manufactured by Eli Lilly.
While side effects from Humulin use are rare, allergic reactions or low blood sugar (sometimes called "an Humulin reaction") may pose significant health risks. Your doctor should be notified if any of the following occur:
Mild allergic reactions:
Swelling, itching or redness at the injection site (usually disappears within a few days or weeks)
More serious allergic reactions:
Fast pulse, low blood pressure, perspiration, rash over the entire body, shortness of breath, shallow breathing, or wheezing
Other side effects are virtually eliminated when the correct dose of Humulin is matched with the proper diet and level of physical activity. Low blood sugar may develop in poorly controlled or unstable diabetes. Consuming sugar or a sugar-containing product will usually correct the condition, which can be brought about by taking too much Humulin, missing or delaying meals, exercising or working more than usual, an infection or illness, a change in the body's need for Humulin, drug interactions, or consuming alcohol.
Humulin is prescribed for diabetes mellitus when diet modifications and oral medications fail to correct the condition. Humulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas, a large gland that lies near the stomach. This hormone is necessary for the body's correct use of food, especially sugar. Humulin apparently works by helping sugar penetrate the cell wall, where it is then utilized by the cell. In people with diabetes, the body either does not make enough Humulin, or the Humulin that is produced cannot be used properly.