Human insulin (100IU/ml) is a sterile, aqueous, clear, and colorless solution of human insulin, a polypeptide hormone produced by recombinant DNA technology. It is identical in amino acid sequence to endogenous human insulin. It is used for the control of hyperglycemia in patients with 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 price spectrum from multiple domestic manufacturers.
Adult: Highly individualized. Typical starting total daily dose: 0.2 to 0.4 IU/kg/day, divided into multiple injections (e.g., before major meals). Often used in combination with longer-acting (basal) insulin.
Note: For subcutaneous use only (unless in hospital IV setting). Administer 30-45 minutes before a meal. Rotate injection sites (abdomen, thigh, buttock, upper arm). Do not inject into areas of lipodystrophy. Ensure vial is at room temperature before injection. Do not shake. Inspect for clarity; discard if cloudy or particulate matter is present.
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 receptor 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 cells, by promoting the translocation of GLUT4 glucose transporters to the cell membrane.
Pregnancy: Pregnancy Category B. Insulin is the drug of choice for glycemic control in pregnancy (both pre-existing and gestational diabetes). Requirements may decrease in first trimester and increase significantly in second/third trimesters. Close monitoring is mandatory.
Driving: Caution required. Patients must check blood glucose before driving and have fast-acting carbohydrates available. Avoid driving if hypoglycemia awareness is impaired.
| Beta-blockers (e.g., Propranolol) | Mask hypoglycemia symptoms (tachycardia, tremor); may potentiate or impair glucose recovery. | Major |
| Corticosteroids (e.g., Prednisolone) | Antagonize insulin effect, increasing insulin requirements. | Major |
| Thiazide Diuretics | May cause hyperglycemia, increasing insulin needs. | Moderate |
| ACE Inhibitors (e.g., Ramipril) | May enhance insulin sensitivity, increasing hypoglycemia risk. | Moderate |
| Alcohol | Potentiates insulin effect, impairs gluconeogenesis, risk of delayed hypoglycemia. | Major |
| Sulfonylureas (e.g., Glimepiride) | Additive hypoglycemic effect. | Major |
| MAO Inhibitors, Anabolic Steroids | Increase hypoglycemic effect. | Moderate |
| Oral Contraceptives, Thyroid Hormones | May increase insulin requirements. | Moderate |
Same composition (Human insulin (100IU/ml)), different brands: