Used as a fast-acting insulin preparation for people with diabetes, Humalog works as an insulin analog, mimicking the body’s own insulin to convert sugars in the blood to glycogen for energy storage. Humalog works almost instantaneously, compared to slower, longer-acting insulin, which takes 30 minutes to start working. It should be taken just before eating or immediately afterwards. Offering flexibility to parents of children with diabetes, Humalog can be taken just after meals, rather than having to anticipate when the child will start eating. Since it is effective for a shorter length of time and leaves the body quickly, there is no “leftover insulin” to cause low blood sugar levels late afternoon or during the night. Of particular help to those with diabetes, Humalog closely approximates the body’s own insulin by lowering blood sugar as the person is eating, reducing blood sugar spiking. This keeps glucose levels in better balance. One issue that develops with fast-acting, short-term insulin is that since it leaves the system quickly, the person will probably need to take a longer-lasting insulin in addition to Humalog, and it may be necessary to take smaller and more frequent doses of regular insulin to keep the body’s blood sugar levels balanced in between meals.
Humalog Side Effects – What are the risks?
Side effects for diabetes and Humalog are few and usually mild, the most common being hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). Low blood sugar is characterized by dizziness, shakiness, or sweating. There may also be an allergic reaction in certain people, which will likely be a skin reaction at the site of the injection. A more severe allergic reaction might include swelling of the face, mouth, lips or tongue, tightness in the chest or breathing difficulty, chills, dizziness, confusion or other mood changes. Allergic reactions and low blood sugar are risks with all kinds of insulin, not just Humalog.
Humalog for Children: Is it safe, and are there alternatives?
For parents of children with diabetes, Humalog has been approved by the FDA for use in children over the age of 3. The ability to use this insulin immediately after eating makes it convenient for parents dealing with problem eaters. The dose can be adjusted to match how much food was eaten, reducing the risk or either high or low blood sugar. Even if your doctor prescribes insulin for you or your child, careful attention must be paid to diet and lifestyle, as changes in what you eat and your daily physical activity may make insulin dosing unnecessary. Avoiding foods that cause spikes in blood sugar (refined cereals and grains, candy and other sweets, sugary sodas, and processed foods that contain sucrose or other sweeteners), along with a healthy diet and exercise, will help maintain steady blood sugar levels and greatly reduce diabetic symptoms.
