What is NovoLog prescribed for?

NovoLog in prescribed for the treatment of adults with diabetes to control high blood sugar. Because NovoLog acts faster and has a shorter duration of action than regular human insulin, NovoLog should normally be used in combination with an intermediate or long-acting insulin.

Who should not use NovoLog?

Do not use NovoLog if you are experiencing an episode of low blood sugar.

Warnings for People taking NovoLog:

• NovoLog is different from regular human insulin because of its fast onset and shorter duration of action. Because of this fast onset, you will need to eat a meal immediately after injecting NovoLog.
• Because of NovoLog’s short duration of action, if you have Type 1 diabetes you also require longer-acting insulin to maintain control of blood sugar.
• The most common side effect of all insulin preparations including NovoLog is low blood sugar. With all types of insulin the timing of low blood sugar can change depending on the formulation so it is important to monitor your blood sugar regularly.

General Precautions to take when on NovoLog:

Because of Novolog’s faster onset of action changes in blood levels of potassium may occur. Not everyone can tolerate rapid changes or low potassium. Patients with certain medical conditions may have more difficulty with the rapid blood sugar lowering effect of NovoLog. Depending on your medical condition, your doctor will decide if NovoLog is right for you.

There is a risk of your blood sugar becoming too low when taking diabetes medicines. Strenuous physical activity, drinking alcoholic beverages, or not eating enough can increase this possibility when taking NovoLog. Talk to your doctor.

Insulin antibodies may develop during treatment with all insulin, but may be greater with NovoLog.

There are some things that you should tell your doctor when taking this medication:

Because certain other medications may increase or decrease the blood-sugar-lowering effect of NovoLog, review all medications you are taking with your doctor, including those that you take without a prescription.

Any change of insulin should be made under medical supervision. Be certain to tell your doctor or doctor if you are taking other insulin, including oral medications used to control blood sugar.

Tell your doctor or doctor if you:

• experience any minor allergic reactions, such as redness, swelling, or itching at the site of injection,
• have a history of kidney or liver problems,
• are pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or if you are currently breast feeding.

What side effects can you expect when taking NovoLog? (This is only a partial list of side effects reported with NovoLog. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for a complete list of possible side effects and drug interactions..)

• Low blood sugar
• Injection site reactions such as redness, pain, itching, hives, and swelling
• Changes in fat tissue at site of injection such as thickened or hard skin

For more detailed information about NovoLog, ask your doctor.