Insulin soluble (regular)
Also sold as: Actrapid, Humulin R
Prescription neededInsulin
Comes as:Injection
Usual adult dose
Dose is set by your doctor and depends on blood sugar, weight and meals. It is usually injected under the skin 15 to 30 minutes before a meal. Never change the dose on your own.
Your doctor may give you a different dose. Children's doses depend on weight.
Side effects
Common
- low blood sugar (shaking
- sweating
- hunger
- headache)
- redness or lumps at the injection site
- weight gain
Serious — get help
Stop taking it and see a doctor straight away if you notice:
- severe low blood sugar (confusion
- fits
- unconsciousness)
- severe allergic reaction
- low potassium (muscle weakness
- irregular heartbeat)
Do not take it, or take care, if
- Low blood sugar at the time of the dose
- Kidney or liver disease (dose may need to be lower)
- Skipping meals after the injection (risk of low blood sugar)
- Always carry sugar or sweets to treat low blood sugar
Interactions
Medicines that can react with this one.
Moderate3 medicinesTake together only with care. Ask your doctor or pharmacist.
- Pioglitazone
The combination increases fluid retention and the risk of heart failure.
- Prednisolone
Steroids raise blood sugar; the insulin dose may need to be increased.
- Propranolol
Beta blockers can hide the warning signs of low blood sugar.