Humulin R Cartridge

Humulin R Cartridge contains insulin human (rDNA) as the active ingredient, provided in a cartridge for subcutaneous injection. The product’s strength is not specified in the available data, and it is marketed in the European Union as a prescription‑only medication for diabetes management. It is intended for use with compatible insulin pens and should be stored in a temperature‑controlled environment to maintain potency throughout until use.

Humulin R Cartridge is indicated for the treatment of diabetes mellitus where rapid‑acting insulin is required to control blood glucose levels.

- Type 1 diabetes mellitus in adults, adolescents, and children. - Type 2 diabetes mellitus when basal insulin alone does not achieve target glycaemic control. - Management of hyperglycaemia during pregnancy (gestational diabetes) under specialist supervision. - Use in insulin pump therapy or as a bolus dose before meals. - Hospital or acute care settings for rapid glucose correction.

Adverse reactions reported with Humulin R Cartridge are generally related to its pharmacologic activity and formulation.

Common: - Hypoglycaemia (low blood glucose) – the most frequent reaction. - Injection site reactions such as redness, swelling or itching. - Lipodystrophy, including lipohypertrophy at repeated injection sites. - Weight gain associated with improved glycaemic control. - Nausea or abdominal discomfort occasionally reported after injection.

Serious: - Severe hypoglycaemia leading to loss of consciousness or seizures. - Allergic reactions ranging from urticaria to anaphylaxis. - Edema or heart failure exacerbation in susceptible patients. - Persistent hyperglycaemia indicating possible insulin resistance. - Localized infection at injection site requiring medical attention.

When prescribing or using Humulin R Cartridge, healthcare professionals should consider several precautionary measures to minimise risks and ensure optimal therapy.

- Assess renal and hepatic function, as impairment may alter insulin clearance. - Monitor blood glucose closely during initiation, dose changes, or when sick. - Educate patients on proper injection technique to avoid lipohypertrophy. - Review concomitant medications that can mask hypoglycaemia symptoms. - Advise caution in pregnant or breastfeeding women; benefits must outweigh potential risks. - Store the cartridge at controlled temperatures and avoid freezing. - Do not use if the cartridge shows particulate matter or discoloration.

Humulin R Cartridge may interact with other agents that affect glucose metabolism or insulin action.

Avoid: - Concurrent use of other rapid‑acting insulins without dose adjustment. - High‑dose beta‑blockers that can mask hypoglycaemia symptoms. - MAO‑A inhibitors combined with sympathomimetic drugs, increasing risk of severe hypoglycaemia. - Thiazide diuretics, which may increase blood glucose levels.

Use with caution: - Oral antidiabetic agents such as sulfonylureas or meglitinides, which can potentiate hypoglycaemia. - Corticosteroids, which may raise blood glucose and require insulin dose increase. - Alcohol consumption, especially in excess, as it can cause delayed hypoglycaemia. - Beta‑agonist inhalers for asthma, which can raise glucose transiently.