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Insulin Isophane Injectable Suspension (INSULIN HUMAN ISOPHANE SUSPENSION - INJECTION)

For diabetes.

Brand Name(s): Humulin N

Generic Name: Insulin Isophane

Instructions

This medicine is used by injecting it into the skin. Please ask your doctor, nurse or pharmacist for the correct places on your body where this medicine can be injected.

Please check with your doctor about when this insulin should be given with the meal.

This insulin should be mixed before using. Gently roll the insulin between your hands 10-20 times until evenly mixed.

This insulin should appear evenly cloudy or milky after mixing. Do not use if it appears discolored or contains any particles.

Store unused insulin vials in the refrigerator until ready to use. Do not allow it to freeze.

Remove the insulin from the refrigerator when you are ready to use it.

Do not return the medicine to the refrigerator after you start using it.

Discard the vial 31 days after removing from the refrigerator, even if there is insulin left in the vial.

Throw away any insulin if it was frozen.

Keep the insulin that you are using at room temperature and protected from light and heat. Discard any insulin if it is exposed to temperature greater than 86º F (30º C).

Never use any insulin that has expired. Throw it away.

Speak with your doctor before mixing this insulin with any other insulin.

Do not mix other medications or dilute with other liquids without first being instructed by your doctor.

Do not inject into skin that has lumps, pits, or is thickened.

Change the location of the injection each time. Choose a location at least 1 inch from the last injection.

Drug interactions can change how medicines work or increase risk for side effects. Tell your health care providers about all medicines taken. Include prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal medicines. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist before starting or stopping any medicine.

Before using insulin, you should be taught by your doctor or a certified diabetes educator. Follow their instructions carefully. If you have not been trained, speak with your doctor before using this medicine.

Be sure to follow your regular meal plan and exercise as discussed with your doctor.

It is very important that you use your medicine every day and that you do not miss any dose of your insulin. Have a discussion with your doctor about what you should do in case you miss an insulin dose.

Cautions

Tell your doctor and pharmacist if you ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.

Monitor your blood sugar as instructed by your doctor.

Adjust the amount of insulin only as recommended by your doctor.

Your ability to stay alert or to react quickly may be impaired by this medicine. Do not drive or operate machinery until you know how this medicine will affect you.

Please check with your doctor before drinking alcohol while on this medicine.

Tell the doctor or pharmacist if you are pregnant, planning to be pregnant, or breastfeeding.

This medicine passes into breast milk. Ask your doctor before breastfeeding.

Always carry an ID card or wear a medical alert bracelet showing that you are diabetic.

Carry glucose tablets or hard candy with you in case you experience low blood sugar from the insulin.

Symptoms of low blood sugar may include nausea, shaking, sweating, cold skin, fast heartbeat, hunger, and irritability.

Ask your pharmacist how to properly throw away used needles or syringes.

Side Effects

The following is a list of some common side effects from this medicine. Please speak with your doctor about what you should do if you experience these or other side effects.

  • weight gain

Call your doctor or get medical help right away if you notice any of these more serious side effects:

  • dizziness
  • swelling of the legs, feet, and hands
  • low blood sugar
  • rapid heartbeat
  • shakiness
  • sweating

A few people may have an allergic reaction to this medicine. Symptoms can include difficulty breathing, skin rash, itching, swelling, or severe dizziness. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical help quickly.

Please speak with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist if you have any questions about this medicine.