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The Question
10/18/09 02:35 PM

"What's the difference between Humalog and Novolog? "
Asked By: dreamlinque  
Category: Insulin

Background Info Hide
My health insurance company's formulary recently changed me from Humalog to Novolog. I have a confirmed allergy to Novolin. Would Novolog be problematic for me, as well? I'd like to know what components are in Humalog and in Novolog so I can compare and contrast these two insulins. Thanks!

Expert Answers (2)

10/21/09 08:53 AM

Novolog and Humalog are both Rapid Acting Insulin, with a very slightly different rDNA structure. Some people respond better to one over the other. Novolog tends to have a slightly smoother and longer absorption curve, which can be helpful for people who are extremely sensitive to insulin. Changing the type of Rapid Acting Insulin you use may necessitate minor insulin dosage adjustments. . . Particularly for people who use insulin pumps. The chemical make up of Novolin is very dissimilar to that of Novolog or Humalog, and an allergy to one insulin type is rarely indication that you will react to another. Some people have a tendency to develop reactivity to different insulin types after prolonged use, and may see improvement in Blood Glucose Control when they switch to different, but similar insulin.
Answered By: Claire Blum
Accreditations: MS Ed, RN, CDE, CPT
Sources Show
10/20/09 06:59 PM

Dear Dreamlinque- Thank-you for contacting dLIfe. The basic difference between these two fast acting insulins is the manufacturer. Humalog is made by Lilly and Novolog is made by Novo-nordisk. As far as an allergy to Novolin, was it that this is a human insulin and not an analog? Both Humalog and Novolog are analog insulins and are synthetic.

I would have a conversation with your physician to see what he says. I would talk to your local pharmacist and ask for the inserts to the insulin and make a comparison. If there is a significant concern your physician can write do not substitute on your prescription due to allergy and they should honor it.

Answered By: Janet HowardDucsay
Accreditations: RN BSN CDE
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