Regular Insulin
Nursing pharmacology study reference (NCLEX-style monograph). Numeric values are standard teaching ranges for study and must be verified against current manufacturer labeling before clinical use. This is educational content, not prescribing guidance.
Regular Insulin (brand names Humulin, Novolin) — Antidiabetic; Short-acting insulin.
Identification
- Therapeutic class: Antidiabetic.
- Pharmacologic class: Short-acting insulin.
Pharmacology
- Mechanism of action: Glucose lowering; the only common insulin given IV.
- Onset / peak / duration: SubQ onset 30 minutes; peak 2 to 4 hours; duration 5 to 8 hours; IV onset minutes.
- Half-life / therapeutic level: Monitor glucose.
Clinical use
- Indications: Mealtime coverage, diabetic ketoacidosis (IV), hyperkalemia (IV with dextrose), sliding scale.
- Usual dose, route, frequency: SubQ 30 minutes before meals; IV infusion in acute care.
- Maximum dose / adjustments: Individualized; IV in DKA per protocol with close glucose and potassium monitoring.
Safety
- Contraindications: Hypoglycemia, hypersensitivity.
- Black box warning: None.
- Interactions: Same insulin interactions.
- Pregnancy / lactation: Insulin preferred.
- High-alert: Yes.
Adverse effects
- Common side effects: Hypoglycemia, weight gain.
- Serious effects to report: Severe hypoglycemia, hypokalemia during IV use.
- Antidote / reversal: Glucose or glucagon.
Nursing process
- Assessment before administration: Blood glucose, potassium (IV), food availability.
- Interventions during therapy: Independent double-check; for hyperkalemia give with dextrose; mix clear before cloudy when combining with NPH.
- Monitor: Blood glucose (often hourly on IV), potassium.
- Evaluation / expected outcome: Controlled glucose, corrected DKA or hyperkalemia.
Patient teaching
- Patient teaching: Give 30 minutes before meals.
- Notify provider if: Frequent lows.
- Administration tips: SubQ or IV; only clear insulin appropriate for IV.