What is Humulin N KwikPen?

It contains biosynthetic human insulin called Insulin isophane made from recombinant DNA technology. Humulin N is a type of intermediate-acting insulin with a duration of action between 16-18 hours and has a slower onset of action than regular insulin.
Each mL of Humulin N KwikPen is equal to 100 units of Insulin isophane. This drug with a sterile white suspension is available in vials and cartridges. Eli Lilly and Company Indiana Pvt Ltd. is the manufacturer of Humulin N and Zuellig Pharmaceuticals is the distributor.

What is it used for?

Humulin N helps patients with Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes mellitus maintain their blood glucose levels.

How does it work?

It maintains sugar levels from spiking by lessening the production of sugar in the liver and increasing sugar reuptake in the muscle and fat cells. Humulin can also lower the progression of complications in diabetic patients such as Retinopathy, Nephropathy, Neuropathy, and diabetic foot ulcer.

How to take it

Always mix the suspension before administration by rolling the pen in between palms. Inspect if the drug is free from clumps, sedimentation, or cracks before attaching the new needle. Prime the pen by putting the dose in 2 units then hold Humulin KwikPen with the needle pointing up to collect bubbles at the top. Push the dose knob until it stops at “0” and count up to 5 seconds to see insulin at the tip of the needle. Inject the drug subcutaneously in the abdomen, thighs, and upper arms of the patient. Remember to change the injection site every other dose to avoid tissue damage. Do not inject intravenously and do not rub the site of administration.

Dosage

Humulin dose should be prescribed by the doctor according to the requirement of the patient concerning her diet and lifestyle.

Side Effects

Blurred vision, anxiety, confusion, drowsiness, tachycardia, weakness, nausea, and difficulty speaking and concentrating are some signs of Hypoglycemia that can be seen in patients taking Humulin.

Warnings, Precautions, and Contraindications

Hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia can cause coma, loss of consciousness, or even death in the patients. Hence, driving or operating machinery should be avoided as blood glucose levels must be monitored for all patients taking Humulin. Insulin dose may increase if the patient is taking Humulin with oral contraceptives, thiazides, sympathomimetics, corticosteroids, danazol, or thyroid replacement therapy. The dose may also decrease in the combination of salicylates, sulfa antibiotics, monoamine oxidase inhibitors, beta-blockers, ACEIs, and alcohol. Taking thiazolidinedione in combination with this drug may result in swelling of the lower extremities and heart failure. Do not use it after the expiry date.

Adverse Effect

Depression in the skin (lipoatrophy), skin lumps (localized subcutaneous amyloidosis), or enlargement of tissue (lipohypertrophy) are the rare results of injecting Insulin subcutaneously but a change in injection technique may solve the problem. Notify the healthcare provider if the patient has a rash all over the body, shortness of breath, diabetic acidosis, reduction in blood pressure, and coma after administration of Humulin.

Storage

Unused pens of Humulin N should be stored in the refrigerator with a temperature ranging from 2-8°C while in-use cartridges should remain in a temperature not exceeding 25°C for up to 14 days. Do not freeze, or store in the bathroom, or with direct sunlight as it may affect the quality of the product.

Disposal

Used needles must be kept in a puncture-resistant container. Humulin KwikPen can be discarded with household trash as long as the needle has been removed.