Questions and Answers
What is the therapeutic classification of Humulin R?
What is the pharmacological classification of Humulin R?
Short-acting hypoglycemia drug
Which of the following are indications for the use of Humulin R? (Select all that apply)
How does Humulin R lower blood glucose levels?
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What is the primary metabolism source for Humulin R?
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Which of the following are common adverse effects of Humulin R? (Select all that apply)
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What are some contraindications for using Humulin R? (Select all that apply)
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What should be monitored in patients receiving Humulin R therapy?
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Humulin R should be administered immediately before meals.
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Which of the following drugs may interact with Humulin R? (Select all that apply)
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Study Notes
Human Regular Insulin (Humulin R, Novolin R)
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Therapeutic Classification: Classified as an anti-diabetic drug and a pancreatic hormone.
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Pharmacological Classification: Identified as a short-acting hypoglycemic drug.
Therapeutic Indications and Uses
- Utilized to control hyperglycemia in diabetes mellitus patients.
- Effective for emergency treatment of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) or hyper-osmolar hyper-glycemic states.
- Prescribed for gestational diabetes management.
- Often combined with intermediate or long-acting insulin to ensure 24-hour glucose control.
Mechanism of Action
- Lowers blood glucose levels by:
- Stimulating glucose uptake in skeletal muscles and fat.
- Inhibiting glucose production in the liver.
- Additional effects include:
- Inhibition of lipolysis and proteolysis.
- Enhanced protein synthesis.
Pharmacokinetics
- Metabolized primarily in the liver.
- Excreted through liver and kidneys.
Adverse Effects
- Endocrine: Risk of hypoglycemia.
- Electrolyte disturbances: Hypokalemia.
- Local reactions: Lipodystrophy, pruritus, erythema, and swelling.
- General: Potential for allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis.
Contraindications and Precautions
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Contraindications:
- Allergy to beef or pork insulins due to hypersensitivity to animal proteins.
- Risk of exacerbating hypoglycemia.
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Precautions:
- Use with caution in pregnancy, renal impairment, fever, thyroid disease, and in elderly or pediatric populations.
Drug Interactions
- Caution advised when used with drugs that may induce hypoglycemia, including:
- Alcohol, ACE inhibitors, MAO inhibitors, octreotide, oral hypoglycemic agents, and salicylates.
- ACE inhibitors can increase insulin sensitivity and enhance its hypoglycemic effects.
- Beta blockers, clonidine, and reserpine may mask signs and symptoms of hypoglycemia.
Nursing Considerations & Patient Teaching
- Regular assessment for hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia symptoms is crucial.
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Lab Test Monitoring:
- Blood glucose levels should be monitored every 6 hours during therapy, more frequently during ketoacidosis or stress.
- A1C levels may be evaluated every 3-6 months to assess treatment effectiveness.
- Monitor serum potassium levels in patients at risk for hypokalemia, especially those using potassium-lowering agents or receiving IV insulin.
- Administration routes: Can be given subcutaneously (SC) or intravenously (IV). For SC, administer 15-30 minutes before meals for optimal effect.
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Description
Test your knowledge about Human Regular Insulin (Humulin R, Novolin R) with this set of flashcards. This quiz covers therapeutic and pharmacological classifications, as well as clinical indications and uses for diabetes management. Perfect for students or healthcare professionals looking to review key concepts.