Products
Insulin lispro is commercially available as an injectable (Humalog). It has been approved in many countries since 1995. Biosimilars are available in some countries. In 2021, Lyumjev was approved in many countries, a new formulation that is characterized by an (even) faster onset of action and a slightly shorter duration of action.
Structure and properties
Insulin lispro (C257H383N65O77S6, Mr = 5808 g/mol) has an identical primary structure to human insulin, except for the amino acids that are swapped in positions 28 and 29 of the B chain. This manifests itself in the altered pharmacokinetic properties.
Effects
Insulin lispro (ATC A10AB04) has blood glucose-lowering properties. It has a rapid onset of action, which is why it can be administered shortly or immediately before meals. Compared with human insulin, the effects of insulin lispro are more rapid and last less time. The effects are based on binding to insulin receptors.
Indications
For the treatment of diabetes mellitus.
Dosage
According to the SmPC. The drug is administered subcutaneously under the skin just before or, if necessary, just after meals (within 15 minutes before or after the meal). Usually, an insulin pen is used for injection. Lyumjev is administered immediately before the start of a meal and up to 20 minutes after the start of a meal because of its rapid onset of action.
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity
- Hypoglycemia
- Insulinoma
Full details of precautions and drug interactions can be found in the Drug Information Leaflet.
Interactions
Numerous active ingredients can affect blood glucose.
Adverse effects
The most common possible adverse effects include hypoglycemia and reactions at the site of administration, such as redness, swelling, and itching.
