Human insulin

Last updated 30 Sep 2026 | 04:35 PM (UTC)

Human insulin Uses

Human insulin is used in the treatment of diabetes.

How Human insulin works

Human insulin works by replacing or supplementing insulin that is insufficient or absent in people with diabetes. It binds to insulin receptors on body cells, which helps signal the cells to take up glucose from the blood. This helps lower blood glucose levels.

Common side effects of Human insulin

Cough, Sore throat, Throat irritation, Hypoglycemia (low blood glucose level)

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Medicine brands for Human insulin

Human Actrapid

Novo Nordisk India Pvt Ltd

₹181 to ₹181

1 variant(s)

Huminsulin R

Eli Lilly and Company India Pvt Ltd

₹177 to ₹651

3 variant(s)

Actrapid HM

Novo Nordisk India Pvt Ltd

Novo Nordisk India Pvt Ltd

Novo Nordisk India Pvt Ltd

₹144 to ₹410

2 variant(s)

Recosulin R

Shreya Life Sciences Pvt Ltd

₹147 to ₹147

1 variant(s)

Humarap

Cadila Pharmaceuticals Ltd

Expert advice for Human insulin

Use Human insulin only with the inhaler specifically prescribed for this medicine.
If you are taking a thiazolidinedione (TZD) such as pioglitazone, your doctor may monitor you for signs of heart failure. Inform your doctor if you develop shortness of breath, swelling of the ankles or feet, or sudden weight gain.
Check your blood glucose regularly when starting a new treatment or when the insulin dose is changed.
Human insulin should not be used during an episode of low blood sugar.
Human insulin is not recommended in patients who smoke or who have recently stopped smoking.
Tell your doctor if you have asthma, COPD, other lung problems, or a history of lung cancer.
Human insulin is not recommended for the treatment of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA).
Do not stop the medicine without consulting your doctor, even if you feel well.
Seek immediate medical attention if you develop breathing difficulty, wheezing, swelling of the face or throat, or other signs of a severe allergic reaction.

Frequently asked questions for Human insulin

Q. What is Human insulin used for?

Human insulin is used to improve blood glucose control in people with type 1 or type 2 diabetes mellitus. It is a fast-acting mealtime insulin administered by oral inhalation.

Q. Can Human insulin be used in type 1 diabetes mellitus?

Yes. In type 1 diabetes, Human insulin can be used as mealtime insulin, but it must be used along with basal insulin to provide continuous insulin coverage.

Q. Can Human insulin be used in type 2 diabetes mellitus?

Yes. It can be used as mealtime insulin in people with diabetes mellitus when additional insulin is required to control blood glucose levels.

Q. Can Human insulin cause low blood sugar?

Yes. Like other insulin products, Human insulin can cause hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), especially if the dose is too high, a meal is missed, or physical activity is increased.

Q. Can Human insulin be used in asthma or COPD?

No. Inhaled insulin can cause acute bronchospasm in patients with chronic lung diseases such as asthma or COPD. Therefore, it is contraindicated in these patients.

Q. Is Human insulin an injection?

No. This formulation is administered by oral inhalation using the prescribed inhaler, as advised by the doctor.