Humulin M3 (Mixture 3)

Humulin M3 (Mixture 3) is a prescription injectable solution that contains human insulin as its active ingredient. It is a mixed‑insulin formulation that combines short‑acting and intermediate‑acting insulin components in a single preparation. The product is supplied in a vial or prefilled cartridge for subcutaneous or intramuscular injection and is marketed in the European Union for the management of diabetes mellitus. It is a prescription‑only antidiabetic agent.

Humulin M3 is indicated for the treatment of diabetes mellitus in patients requiring a combination of rapid‑acting and intermediate‑acting insulin to achieve glycemic control.

- Type 1 diabetes mellitus – basal and mealtime insulin coverage. - Type 2 diabetes mellitus – adjunct to diet, exercise, and oral agents when basal insulin alone is insufficient. - Adults and pediatric patients (≥2 years) who need a mixed‑insulin regimen. - Situations where multiple daily injections are not feasible, providing both short‑ and intermediate‑duration action in one dose.

Adverse reactions to Humulin M3 may vary in frequency and severity.

Common: - Hypoglycemia (low blood glucose). - Injection‑site pain, redness or swelling. - Weight gain.

Serious: - Severe hypoglycemia requiring assistance. - Allergic reactions such as urticaria, angioedema, or anaphylaxis. - Insulin‑induced edema or heart‑failure exacerbation.

Patients using Humulin M3 should be aware of several precautions to minimize risks.

- Monitor blood glucose regularly and adjust dose as needed. - Recognize signs of hypoglycemia and have a rapid source of glucose available. - Use caution in renal or hepatic impairment, as insulin clearance may be reduced. - Pregnancy and lactation safety have not been established; consult a healthcare professional. - Discontinue use if a hypersensitivity reaction occurs. - Adjust insulin requirements during illness, stress, or changes in physical activity. - Store the product according to label instructions to maintain potency.

Humulin M3 can interact with other medicines, affecting blood‑glucose control.

Avoid: - Simultaneous use of other insulin products that may cause overlapping insulin action. - Co‑administration with sulfonylureas or meglitinides without dose adjustment, due to increased hypoglycemia risk.

Use with caution: - Beta‑blockers, which may mask hypoglycemia symptoms. - Corticosteroids, which can raise blood glucose and may require insulin dose changes. - ACE inhibitors or ARBs, which may potentiate insulin’s glucose‑lowering effect.