Humalog (insulin lispro) is a prescription drug that’s prescribed for diabetes in adults and certain children. The drug comes as a liquid solution for subcutaneous injection or intravenous (IV) infusion. It’s usually given around mealtime.
Humalog is used to help manage blood sugar levels in adults and certain children with type 1 or type 2 diabetes.
The active ingredient in Humalog is insulin lispro. (An active ingredient is what makes a drug work.) It’s also available in another form called Humalog Mix (insulin lispro and insulin lispro protamine).
Humalog belongs to a group of drugs called insulins.
This article describes the dosages of Humalog and Humalog Mix, as well as their forms, strengths, and how to use them. To learn more about Humalog and Humalog Mix, see this in-depth article.
Humalog Images
Humalog prescription medications are used to help manage blood sugar levels in adults and children with type 1 or type 2 diabetes. These drugs come in two types: Humalog and Humalog Mix.
The main ingredient in Humalog is insulin lispro, which is a rapid-acting insulin analog. (An analog is a synthetic version of the insulin found naturally in your body.)
Humalog Mix also contains insulin lispro. But it also contains insulin lispro protamine (a longer-acting insulin). There are two forms of Humalog Mix:
- Humalog Mix 50/50
- Humalog Mix 75/25
Both Humalog and Humalog Mix come as a liquid solution that you receive as a subcutaneous injection (which is an injection under your skin). A healthcare professional can also give you Humalog as an IV infusion (which is an injection into a vein that’s given over time). Humalog Mix can’t be given as an IV infusion.
What are the forms of Humalog?
Humalog comes in several forms:
| Humalog form | Form description | Form size(s) | Units of insulin per milliliter (mL) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Humalog multidose vial | vial containing several doses of insulin that can be used for injections, infusions, and insulin pump refills | • 3 mL • 10 mL | • U-100 (100 units of insulin per mL) |
| Humalog KwikPen | disposable, prefilled injection pen | • 3 mL | • U-100 • U-200 |
| Humalog Tempo Pen | disposable, prefilled injection pen | • 3 mL | • U-100 |
| Humalog Junior KwikPen | disposable, prefilled injection pen | • 3 mL | • U-100 |
| Humalog cartridges | disposable, prefilled cartridge | • 3 mL | • U-100 |
Humalog Mix 50/50 and Mix 75/25 are available in two forms:
| Humalog form | Form description | Form size | Units of insulin per milliliter (mL) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Humalog Mix multidose vial | vials containing several dosages of insulin that can be used for injections | 10 mL | U-100 |
| Humalog Mix KwikPen | disposable, prefilled injection pens | 3 mL | U-100 |
If you have questions about Humalog’s forms, talk with your doctor or pharmacist.
What strengths does Humalog come in?
Humalog comes in two strengths: U-100, which contains 100 units of insulin per mL, and U-200, which contains 200 units of insulin per mL. The U-200 strength is used only for subcutaneous injections.
Humalog Mix 50/50 and Humalog Mix 75/25 only come in the U-100 strength. Humalog Mix 50/50 contains 50% insulin lispro and 50% insulin lispro protamine. Humalog Mix 75/25 contains 75% insulin lispro protamine and 25% insulin lispro.
What are the typical dosages of Humalog?
Your doctor will likely start you on a low dosage. Then they’ll adjust your dosage over time to reach the right amount for you. Your doctor will ultimately prescribe the smallest dosage that provides the desired effect. There is no maximum dose for Humalog.
The information below describes dosages that are commonly used or recommended. But be sure to take the dosage your doctor prescribes for you. Your doctor will determine the best dosage to fit your needs.
Dosage for type 1 diabetes
The manufacturer of Humalog doesn’t provide dosing recommendations for Humalog medications. The dose your doctor prescribes can depend on several factors, such as your weight, how well your diabetes is managed, and other conditions you may have.
With type 1 diabetes, you’ll typically calculate a total insulin dose for each day. Then you’ll take half of your insulin as long-acting insulin and the other half as rapid-acting insulin.
To find the best Humalog or Humalog Mix dose for you, your doctor will teach you how to calculate a total daily insulin dose.
Based on recommendations from the American Diabetes Association, the dose for type 1 diabetes is about 0.4 to 1 units of insulin per kilogram (kg) of body weight. (One kg is roughly equal to 2.2 pounds.)
When you use the medication will depend on which type you’re prescribed:
- Humalog: If you’re prescribed Humalog, you’ll typically use the medication 15 minutes before or immediately after a meal. Your dose and dosing schedule will depend on what your doctor determines is right for you.
- Humalog Mix: If you’re prescribed either Humalog Mix 50/50 or Mix 75/25, you’ll typically use the medication 15 minutes before meals. You’ll do this two times per day to cover two meals. The dose you’ll receive depends on your doctor’s recommendations.
If your doctor prescribes Humalog for use with an insulin pump, they’ll show you how to set your insulin dosage.
If you have questions about your Humalog or Humalog Mix dose, talk with your doctor.
Dosage for type 2 diabetes
The manufacturer of Humalog doesn’t provide dosing recommendations for Humalog medications. The dose your doctor prescribes can depend on many factors, such as other medications you may take.
With type 2 diabetes, you’ll typically receive a scheduled dose of a long-acting insulin. You can add rapid or short-acting insulin at mealtimes to help manage your blood sugar.
Based on recommendations from the American Diabetes Association, the starting dose for rapid-acting insulins such as Humalog is about 4 units, or about 10% of your long-acting insulin dose. You should take your dose of rapid-acting insulin at your largest meal of the day.
When you use the medication will depend on which type you’re prescribed:
- Humalog: If you’re prescribed Humalog, you’ll typically use the medication 15 minutes before or immediately after a meal. Your dose and dosing schedule will depend on what your doctor determines is right for you.
- Humalog Mix: If you’re prescribed either Humalog Mix 50/50 or Mix 75/25, you’ll typically use the medication 15 minutes before meals. You’ll do this twice daily to cover two meals.
If you have questions about your Humalog or Humalog Mix dose, talk with your doctor.
Is Humalog used long term?
Yes, Humalog and Humalog Mix are typically used as a long-term treatment. If you and your doctor determine that either is safe and effective for you, it’s likely that you’ll use it long term.
What’s the dosage of Humalog for children?
Humalog is approved for use in children. (Humalog Mix is not approved for this use.)
However, Humalog hasn’t been studied in children under the age of 3 years. It also hasn’t been studied in children with type 2 diabetes.
The manufacturer of Humalog doesn’t provide dosing recommendations for the medication. Humalog dosage will vary for each person. If your child’s doctor recommends Humalog, they will help determine the right dose of the drug for your child.
If you have questions about using Humalog for your child’s treatment, talk with your doctor.
The dosage of Humalog or Humalog Mix you’re prescribed may depend on several factors. These include:
- the type of diabetes you have and its severity
- which form of the medication you use
- your weight
- goals you have for your blood sugar levels
- when and how often you exercise
- other medical conditions you have
- other medications you take
An insulin sliding scale is a dosage chart that helps people with type 1 or type 2 diabetes figure out their insulin dosing. Based on your blood sugar levels, the chart should tell you how much insulin to take at mealtimes or before bed.
If your doctor recommends it, they’ll help you make a sliding scale that fits your insulin needs and treatment plan.
The scale may depend on other factors such as diet and exercise. If certain factors change, your insulin needs may change as well. Not considering those changes may increase your risk of both high blood sugar and low blood sugar.
You may be able to use a sliding scale with Humalog or Humalog Mix. But a sliding scale may not be the right option for you based on your diabetes treatment plan. Discuss with your doctor the best way for you to calculate your dosage needs.
Below are answers to some common questions about Humalog.
How do I know how much Humalog or Humalog Mix I should use?
The dosage for Humalog medications can vary from person to person. It’s based on many factors, such as your daily insulin needs and your diet. Your doctor will help you make a diabetes treatment plan and figure out the right Humalog or Humalog Mix dose for you.
For more information about dosing for this drug, see the “What is Humalog’s dosage?” section above.
What’s the dosage if I’m using a KwikPen?
The dosage for your KwikPen will depend on several factors, including your current blood sugar levels and your diet. It’s likely that you’ll have to calculate a dose for each injection. You should follow the instructions that your doctor provided when they prescribed your medication.
For more information about Humalog and Humalog Mix dosing, see the “What is Humalog’s dosage?” section above.
Can I use Humalog at bedtime?
It’s unlikely that you’ll use your Humalog medication at bedtime. But if you’re having a meal immediately before bed, you may need to use it. This depends on the instructions your doctor gave you.
Typically, people with type 2 diabetes use a long-acting insulin at night to treat their condition. This form of insulin helps manage blood sugar levels for up to 24 hours after you inject it. An example of long-acting insulin is Levemir (insulin detemir).
If you have questions about when to use Humalog or Humalog Mix, talk with your doctor.
Humalog and Humalog Mix come as a liquid solution that you receive as a subcutaneous injection (which is an injection under your skin). A healthcare professional can also give you Humalog as an intravenous (IV) infusion (which is an injection into a vein that’s given over time). Humalog Mix can’t be given as an IV infusion.
Humalog can also be used with an insulin pump. This device can be worn on your body and delivers a set dose of insulin throughout the day. Insulin pumps can also give extra doses of insulin at mealtimes.
Humalog and Humalog Mix come in different forms and strengths. For more information, see the “What is Humalog’s dosage?” section above.
If you’re receiving Humalog or Humalog Mix for the first time, your doctor will show you or your caregiver how to inject it. It’s important to follow your doctor’s instructions carefully. You can also refer to step-by-step guides in the prescribing information for Humalog, Humalog Mix 50/50, or Humalog Mix 75/25.
You’ll likely store your Humalog medication in your refrigerator. If you’re using a new pen or the multidose vial, be sure to take it out of the refrigerator before you use it. Let it get to room temperature, preferably below 86°F (30°C).
Before the injection, check the medication. Humalog should be clear and colorless. Humalog Mix should be cloudy and white. If the medication doesn’t look as it should, discard the current dose and use a new one.
You can use the multidose vials and prefilled syringes multiple times. But never reuse a single-use syringe when giving yourself an injection from the vial.
You’ll typically use your Humalog or Humalog Mix around mealtime. If you forget to give yourself a dose before eating, do so immediately after finishing your meal. But if you realize you missed your dose a few hours after your meal, give yourself a dose at your regularly scheduled time.
If you’re using your Humalog medication late, the insulin will start working a bit later than if you took it when you usually would. You should be on the lookout for any symptoms of high or low blood sugar. Also monitor your blood sugar level more often than usual.
If you receive Humalog infusions from a healthcare professional, reschedule any missed appointments as soon as possible.
If you have concerns or questions about a missed dose, contact your doctor.
If you need help remembering to take your dose of Humalog or Humalog Mix on time, try using a medication reminder. This can include setting an alarm, downloading a reminder app, or setting a timer on your phone. A kitchen timer can work, too.
Don’t use more of your Humalog medication than your doctor prescribes. Using more than this can lead to serious side effects such as low blood sugar. You should monitor your blood sugar levels closely and make sure you know how much insulin you should be taking.
Symptoms of overdose
Symptoms caused by an overdose can include:
- confusion
- dizziness
- shaking or trembling
- sweating
- blurred vision
- seizures
- loss of consciousness
What to do in case you use too much Humalog
Call your doctor right away if you think you’ve used too much Humalog or Humalog Mix. You can also call 800-222-1222 to reach America’s Poison Centers, or use its online resource. But if you have severe symptoms, call 911 (or your local emergency number) immediately or go to the nearest emergency room.
If your doctor recommends Humalog or Humalog Mix for you, they’ll prescribe the dosage that’s right for you. Still, you may have questions about your dosage.
Remember, you shouldn’t change your dosage of Humalog or Humalog Mix without your doctor’s approval. Only use the medication exactly as prescribed. Talk with your doctor if you have questions or concerns about your current dosage.
Here are some examples of questions you may want to ask your doctor:
- What should I do if I forget to take my Humalog medication at the scheduled time?
- How do my daily life and activities affect my Humalog dose?
- Does the dosage of my Humalog medication need to change if I’m taking other drugs along with it?
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Q:
What’s the difference between Humalog U-100 and Humalog U-200?
AnonymousA:
The difference between Humalog U-100 (100 units of insulin per milliliter [mL]) and Humalog U-200 (200 units/mL) is the strength. Both strengths have the same active ingredient, insulin lispro.
Humalog U-200 is two times more concentrated than Humalog U-100, meaning there are more units of insulin lispro per mL of insulin. This means you’ll likely use a smaller volume of insulin if you’re prescribed Humalog U-200.
It’s important not to switch from Humalog U-100 to Humalog U-200 without first talking with your doctor.
The Healthline Pharmacist TeamAnswers represent the opinions of our medical experts. All content is strictly informational and should not be considered medical advice.Disclaimer: Healthline has made every effort to make certain that all information is factually correct, comprehensive, and up to date. However, this article should not be used as a substitute for the knowledge and expertise of a licensed healthcare professional. You should always consult your doctor or another healthcare professional before taking any medication. The drug information contained herein is subject to change and is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. The absence of warnings or other information for a given drug does not indicate that the drug or drug combination is safe, effective, or appropriate for all patients or all specific uses.