Humalog vs Novolog
If you are already using insulin then you already understand that it’s a hormone that is naturally created in the body but can also be taken as a medication.
Insulin medications are used to regulate sugar levels in the body. Typically insulin medications are referred by either Bolus or Basal. Basal refers to insulin that works throughout the day and Bolus is a mealtime insulin.
Two of the most common synthetic insulin medications used by type 1 and 2 diabetics is Humalog and Novolog.
Novolog is the brand name of insulin aspart whereas Humalog is the brand name of insulin lispro. Both drugs effectively help maintain blood glucose levels in diabetics.
Both of these diabetes treatments are rapid acting which means their effects are quicker than most types of insulin.
In this article we will compare Humalog vs Novolog, examine their differences and similarities to find out which is is right for you.
Humalog vs Novolog – Similarities
Humalog and Novolog share several similarities such as how they are taken, effectiveness in regulating blood glucose levels and side effects.
Both are rapid acting. According to the American Diabetes Association estimates that both types of insulin begin to work after 15 mintes.
Both of these treatments can last up to four hours and usually peak after 1 hour. Since they may vary slightly, it’s important that you check your blood sugar levels after use.
It’s recommended to eat within a short period of using either drugs. Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) may result if eating is delayed after taking either of the rapid acting insulin medications.
Both medications should not be used together but instead included in a regiment with other intermediate and/or long lasting insulin.
Humalog vs Novolog – The Main Difference
Humalog is an insulin aspart, which differs from human insulin based one a single substitution of proline with aspartic acid in position B28.
Novolog is an insulin lispro which differs from human insulin which substitutes proline with lysine in position 28 and lysine with proline in position 28 of the B chain.
Both include of these minor substitutions increase the rate of blood absorption after subcutaneous injection.
Novolog can be used to treat adults and children as young as 2 years old. Humalog on the other hand hasn’t been studied in children younger than 3 years old.
Novolog has a faster absorption rate and should be taken closer to meal time. For best results its best to use 5-10 minutes before eating.
Humalog is recommended to be taken 15 minutes prior to meal time otherwise take it after you finish eating.
Novolog can be diluted to create a lower dose. This can be done by using a Novolog diluting medium but it’s important to be properly instructed by your doctor prior to trying this.
Humalog vs Novolog – Common Side Effects
Most insulin medications have similar side effects. The most common is hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). It’s important to monitor blood sugar levels so they don’t go too low, especially if taking too much.
Other common side effects include diarrhea, nausea, headaches and weight gain.
There are many factors which can affect blood sugar levels such as diet, stress and exercise. For this reason it’s important to blood sugar levels regularly.
More serious side effects may include: fluid retention/swelling, low blood potassium levels, allergic reactions, heart disease and injection site reaction.
It’s important to notify your physician if you experience any side effects.
Humalog vs Novolog – Cost
Insulin prices in the United States have steadily rise over the years. The cost of these insulin medications can vary depending on your health insurance plan.
Both Humalog and Novolg are similar in price. These insulin brands do not any generic versions available. Both are sold as cartridges or vials.
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Humalog vs Novolog – Who Should Take Them?
Humalog is used to treat both type 1 and type 2 diabetes in both adults and children who are at least 3 years of age.
In contrast, Novolog can be taken by children who are at least 2 years of age.
Humalog is available in the following:
- 3 milliliter (ml) prefilled KwikPen
- 3 ml cartridges
- 3 ml vials
- 10 ml vials
NovoLog is available in the following:
- 3 ml FlexTouch
- 3 ml FlexPen
- 3 ml PenFill cartridges
- 10 ml vials
If you are sensitive to insulin or any of its preservatives and fillers then you should not be taking this medication. Furthermore, if you have any serious symptoms or reactions such as an allergic reaction or shortness of breath, you should stop taking the medication immediately. In both cases, consult your physician on other treatment options available such as oral medications.
Bottom Line
In one small study comparing these two medications with people with Type 1 diabetes found there was no difference between the two groups taking them. Insulin levels were similar 30 minutes after injection. After four hours both medications were absent in the blood. The study found that there were no significant differences and both Humalog and Novolog had similar effects on glucose, carbohydrate and fat metabolism.
The study did find that Humalog was best taken 15 minutes before eating or immediately after. Novolog was best taken 5-10 minutes before meal time or soon after eating. Both shared the same side effects.
Both Humalog and Novolog are rapid acting insulin medications for those who have big swings in blood sugar levels throughout the day. They work very similarly but have subtle differences. Be sure to consult a doctor or pharmacist to find out which one is best for you.
