Insulin question.

[EhlerDave]

Does anyone use HUMULIN R made by ReliOn/Lilly ?

If you do have you had problems getting your RX filled? I have been out almost 4 weeks now. I have been told all sorts of wild things as to why I cant get my refill. On Jan. 1st my insurance changes, so it makes it a mess at the moment, no clue what the new company will cover.

Next thing, anyone have any odd side effects other than low BS readings?

I have been asking everyone I can plus looking all over the computer but am getting so much info I cant sort it all out. Would take me months to read it all. When I ask I get told the side effects are low BS, that is why I take it not what I would think of as a side effect.

I wont say what my side effects are (have stopped since I have been out) just yet hope to hear it from some others before I get a serious mad on going.

Thanks for any help.

 

[batchman]

Relion contract was bought by Novo Nordisk instead of Lilly, so the insulin equivalent is now Relion Novolin R. Side effects are probably from diabetes vs insulin. Low glucose is #1 side effect of all insulin due to danger of going too low. Skin reaction site from injection is 2nd. Are you taking a long acting insulin because most people dont just take Regular alone sincr it covers glucose from meals?

 

[rhodesbe]

I use it Humulin R in my insulin pump. You can buy it with no RX required at any Walmart for $25/vial.

The difference between Humulin R/Novolin R and the 'log' insulins (ie: Humalog/Novolog) is how quickly they act to lower blood sugar, generally within 15 minutes. For example, because I use an insulin pump, I only take one type of insulin. The quicker it begins to be absorbed, the less time is required between eating something and taking insulin - resulting in a lower BG spike.

The 'R' insulins (R stands for Rapid) do not act as quickly, generally within 45 minutes. However, despite the 'power curve' differences, they are equally as potent and I generally can exchange them 1:1.

 

[MR.T.]

I don't use that kind anymore, I have been using Humalog for some time now, and never seem to have an issue with supply. U need to get to your doctor and let him know that you can't seem to get any of that type, he could for the time being, issue you a new prescription for a different type of insulin that works equally well, or he may even have some free samples on hand that he could give you.

I know that having to buy and take that insulin is not fun, but I sure never would be without it. especially that long. You need to get something.

 

[Okie4570]

I don't use that kind anymore, I have been using Humalog for some time now, and never seem to have an issue with supply. U need to get to your doctor and let him know that you can't seem to get any of that type, he could for the time being, issue you a new prescription for a different type of insulin that works equally well, or he may even have some free samples on hand that he could give you.

I know that having to buy and take that insulin is not fun, but I sure never would be without it. especially that long. You need to get something.

x2 on needing to get some insulin! Use Humalog in my pump, so can't help with your question. Doesn't the "R" stand for regular?

 

[EhlerDave]

Thanks folks for the replies. I have been discussing this with my Dr and the pharmacy but it seems like the pharmacy cant look and see what meds are covered until they have them filled. Then when they tell me the cost, because insurance does not cover it I cant afford the RX.

The Dr has asked the pharmacy to look see what types I can get on my coverage. Sofar 3 times the pharmacy has been wrong. To top it off my insurance changes at the first of the year.

By being very, very careful with just my use of metforman and Lantus I am keeping my sugars to a safe point. But do have spikes when I eat.

Oh will say I am changing pharmacy.

 

[EhlerDave]

Oh I am taking 15-18 units of the Humulin R 3 times a day. Along with several oral meds.

Well I was taking the insulin until I ran out.