Human insulin (100IU) is a short-acting, regular insulin preparation that is identical in structure to the endogenous insulin produced by the human pancreas. It is a sterile, aqueous, clear, and colorless solution for subcutaneous injection, used to control hyperglycemia in diabetes mellitus. In the Indian context, it is a critical, life-saving medication for both Type 1 and advanced Type 2 diabetes, available across a wide range of price points.
Adult: Highly individualized. Typical starting dose in Type 2 diabetes: 0.2-0.4 IU/kg/day. In Type 1 diabetes: 0.5-1.0 IU/kg/day. Usually given as 2-3 injections per day, 30-45 minutes before major meals. Dose is adjusted based on blood glucose monitoring.
Note: For subcutaneous use only (except IV in hospital). Rotate injection sites within the same region. Inject into lifted skin fold at a 90-degree angle (45 degrees if thin). Use a new needle for each injection. Do not share pens or needles. Vials must not be frozen or exposed to excessive heat/sunlight.
Human insulin binds to the alpha subunit of the transmembrane insulin receptor, a tyrosine kinase receptor, on target cells (primarily liver, muscle, and adipose tissue). This binding triggers autophosphorylation of the beta subunit and activation of intracellular signaling cascades (IRS/PI3K/Akt and MAPK pathways). The primary metabolic effect is the facilitation of cellular glucose uptake, especially in muscle and fat, by promoting the translocation of glucose transporter type 4 (GLUT4) to the cell membrane.
Pregnancy: Pregnancy Category B. Insulin is the drug of choice for diabetes in pregnancy. Requirements may decrease in first trimester and increase significantly in second/third trimesters. Close monitoring (HbA1c, fasting, and postprandial glucose) is mandatory.
Driving: Caution advised. Patients must check blood glucose before driving and have fast-acting carbohydrates available. Avoid driving during peak insulin action or if hypoglycemia symptoms are present.
| Beta-blockers (e.g., Propranolol) | Mask hypoglycemia symptoms (tachycardia); may potentiate hypoglycemia. | Major |
| Corticosteroids (e.g., Prednisolone) | Antagonize insulin effect, causing hyperglycemia and increased insulin requirement. | Major |
| Thiazide diuretics (e.g., Hydrochlorothiazide) | May cause hyperglycemia, reducing insulin efficacy. | Moderate |
| ACE Inhibitors (e.g., Ramipril) | May enhance insulin sensitivity, increasing hypoglycemia risk. | Moderate |
| Alcohol | Potentiates hypoglycemic effect and can cause delayed hypoglycemia, especially in fasting state. | Major |
| Sulfonylureas (e.g., Glimepiride) | Additive hypoglycemic effect. | Major |
| MAO Inhibitors, Anabolic Steroids | Increase hypoglycemic effect. | Moderate |
Same composition (Human insulin (100IU)), different brands: