From the Guidelines
Insulin Lispro (Humalog) and Human Insulin (Humulin R) differ significantly in their onset and duration of action, with Lispro being a rapid-acting insulin analog and Humulin R being a regular human insulin. The main difference between the two is their pharmacokinetic profiles, with Lispro starting to work within 15 minutes, peaking in 30-90 minutes, and lasting about 2-4 hours, whereas Humulin R takes 30-60 minutes to start working, peaks in 2-3 hours, and remains active for 5-8 hours 1. This difference in action profile makes Lispro more suitable for mealtime use, as it closely mimics the body's natural insulin response to food, allowing for more flexibility in dosing, which can be administered immediately before or even shortly after eating 1. In contrast, Humulin R must be administered 30 minutes before meals due to its slower onset. Lispro may provide better postprandial glucose control with potentially less risk of delayed hypoglycemia compared to Humulin R, as seen in studies comparing rapid-acting analogs to human insulins in people with type 1 diabetes 1. However, the choice between these insulins should be based on individual factors, including lifestyle, meal patterns, glucose control needs, and cost considerations, as Humulin R is typically less expensive, which may be an important consideration for patients without adequate insurance coverage. Some key points to consider when choosing between Insulin Lispro and Human Insulin include:
- Onset and duration of action
- Mealtime flexibility
- Postprandial glucose control
- Risk of hypoglycemia
- Cost and insurance coverage It is essential to individualize treatment and consider these factors when deciding between Insulin Lispro and Human Insulin, as stated in the standards of medical care in diabetes-2021 1.
From the Research
Difference between Insulin Lispro and Human Insulin
The main difference between Insulin Lispro (Humalog) and Human Insulin (Humulin R) lies in their pharmacological properties and effects on glucose control. Key differences include:
- Onset and Duration of Action: Insulin Lispro has a faster onset and shorter duration of action compared to Human Insulin 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
- Absorption Rate: Insulin Lispro is absorbed more rapidly from subcutaneous sites than Human Insulin, resulting in higher maximum insulin concentrations and a more rapid return to baseline values 2.
- Postprandial Glucose Control: Insulin Lispro provides better postprandial glucose control, with lower postprandial blood glucose levels and reduced glucose excursions 2, 3, 5, 6.
- Hypoglycemia: Insulin Lispro is associated with a lower incidence of hypoglycemia, particularly nocturnal hypoglycemia 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
- Patient Preference and Quality of Life: Patients perceive their quality of life to be improved with Insulin Lispro, and satisfaction with treatment is greater compared to Human Insulin 2, 3.
Clinical Implications
The differences between Insulin Lispro and Human Insulin have significant clinical implications, including:
- Improved Glycemic Control: Insulin Lispro can provide better glycemic control, particularly in patients with type 1 or 2 diabetes requiring premeal insulin therapy 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
- Reduced Hypoglycemia: The lower incidence of hypoglycemia with Insulin Lispro can reduce the risk of hypoglycemic episodes and improve patient safety 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
- Increased Patient Convenience: The faster onset and shorter duration of action of Insulin Lispro can offer greater convenience for patients, allowing for more flexible meal planning and reduced injection-meal intervals 2, 3.