Insulin Isophane/NPH (50%) + Human Insulin/Soluble Insulin (50%) (Medical Monograph)

Overview

A biphasic isophane insulin injection, also known as biphasic human insulin or 50/50 mixed insulin. It is a sterile, white, and cloudy suspension containing 50% intermediate-acting Insulin Isophane (NPH) and 50% short-acting Human Insulin (Soluble/Regular Insulin) in a neutral phosphate buffer. This premixed formulation is designed to provide both prandial (mealtime) and basal (background) insulin coverage in a single injection, simplifying the regimen for patients with diabetes mellitus. It is a critical component of diabetes management in the Indian healthcare setting due to its cost-effectiveness and ease of use.

Insulin is the principal hormone required for proper glucose utilization. It regulates carbohydrate, lipid, and protein metabolism by promoting cellular uptake of glucose (especially in muscle and adipose tissue), inhibiting hepatic glucose production (gluconeogenesis and glycogenolysis), and promoting glycogen, lipid, and protein synthesis. The soluble insulin component acts rapidly to control postprandial glucose rises, while the isophane (NPH) component provides a prolonged action to manage interprandial and basal glucose levels.