NPH insulin, also known as Hagedorn's neutral protamine, is a type of human insulin used to treat diabetes, helping to control the amount of sugar in the blood. Unlike regular insulin, NPH has a prolonged action that takes between 4 to 10 hours to take effect, lasting up to 18 hours.
Often, this type of insulin is used in conjunction with a fast-acting insulin, with the rapid helping to balance sugar levels right after a meal, while NPH controls sugar levels for the rest of the day.
In addition to NPH and regular insulin, there are also insulin analogues that are modified in the laboratory. Learn about the different types of insulin.
Price
The price of NPH insulin can vary between 50 to 100 reais and can be purchased at conventional pharmacies, with a prescription, under the trade name Humulin N or Novolin N, in the form of a pre-filled pen or vial for injection.
What is it for
This type of insulin is indicated to treat diabetes in cases where the pancreas cannot produce enough insulin to control the amount of sugar in the blood.
How to take
The dose of NPH insulin and the time of administration should always be guided by the endocrinologist, as it varies according to the pancreas' ability to produce insulin.
Before giving the injection, the insulin cartridge must be rotated and inverted 10 times to ensure that the substance is well diluted.
The way in which this medicine is administered is usually explained in the hospital by a nurse or doctor. However, here you can review all the steps to administer insulin at home.
Possible side effects
The most frequent problem with insulin use is a sudden drop in blood sugar levels due to overdose. In such cases, symptoms such as excessive tiredness, headache, fast heart beat, nausea, cold sweats and tremors may appear.
In these cases, it is advisable to go to the hospital quickly to assess the situation and start appropriate treatment.
Who should not use
Insulin should not be used when blood sugar levels are below that recommended by the doctor. In addition, it should also not be used in case of allergy to any of the components of the formula.
In pregnancy, insulin doses may change, especially in the first 3 months and, therefore, it is recommended to consult the endocrinologist in case of pregnancy or inform the obstetrician.
