Isophane insulin
Also known as: Novolin NPH, Humulin N, Novolin N
Isophane insulin is a man-made form of a hormone that is produced in the body. It lowers the level of glucose (sugar) in the blood. Insulin isophane is a long-acting form of insulin that is slightly different from other forms of insulin that are not man-made.
Primary Characteristics
Isophane insulin is also known as Novolin NPH, Humulin N, Novolin N.
It is of Semi Synthetic origin.
Non-proprietary name: Isophane insulin.

Pharmacokinetics
Elimination: it is metabolised via Mainly in liver, plasma half-life is 4-5 min, renal excretion is Small amount.
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Indications
Isophane insulin is primarily indicated in conditions like Diabetes mellitus, Diabetes mellitus type-ii.
Contraindications
Isophane insulin is contraindicated in conditions like Renal impairment, Hepatic impairment, Breast feeding, Hypersensitivity to any component of product.
Dosage
Isophane insulin's dosage details are as follows:
| Dose | Single Dose | Frequency | Route | Instructions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Adult Dosage | ||||
| 0.35 unit/kg/day | 0.35 unit/kg/day | — | SC | For diabetis 1 mellitus: Honeymoon phase |
| 0.65 unit/kg/day | 0.65 unit/kg/day | — | SC | For diabetis 1 mellitus: Initial dose |
| 0.85 unit/kg/day | 0.85 unit/kg/day | — | SC | For diabetis 1 mellitus: Split dose therapy |
| 1 unit/kg/day | 1 unit/kg/day | — | SC | For diabetis mellitus Type 11: Initial dose, monotherapy |
| 1.6 unit/kg/day | 1.6 unit/kg/day | — | SC | For diabetis 1 mellitus: Insulin resistance |
| 2.5 unit/kg | 2.5 unit/kg | — | SC | For diabetis mellitus Type 11: Maintenance dose, monotherapy |
| Paediatric Dosage (20kg) | ||||
| No data. | ||||
| Neonatal Dosage (3kg) | ||||
| No data. | ||||
Drug Interactions
Always consult your physician for the change of dose regimen or an alternative drug of choice that may strictly be required.
Side Effects
Isophane insulin in overdosage may give rise to further complications which include Visual disturbances , Hypoglycemia, Anaphylaxis , Neuropathic pain.
Isophane insulin produces potentially life-threatening effects which include Excessive fluid vetention in the body tissue. Careful monitoring is needed with proper medical management.
The signs and symptoms that are produced after acute overdosage of Isophane insulin are Convulsions , Coma, Blurred vision, Confusion , Hypokalemia , Hypoglycemia, Sweating , Stomach pain, Tremor, Sweating, Pallor, Hunger .
Isophane insulin is known to cause more or less tolerable side effects which are usually transient. These include Angioedema, Dizziness, Drowsiness, Hypersensitivity , Itching, Redness at injection site, Swelling at injection site.
Warnings / Precautions
Interference in Pathology
Isophane insulin may interfere in the diagnosis of Monitoring of blood and urine glucose.
Available Brands
Storage Conditions
Drug Classification
- 1.18.7.1 — Insulins