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Pre-mixed insulin analogue

Biphasic insulin lispro

Brand names: Humalog Mix25, Humalog Mix50

A premixed (biphasic) insulin combining rapid-acting insulin lispro with an intermediate-acting protaminated component, given by subcutaneous injection for diabetes mellitus. This page covers the premixed formulation and its mealtime-related risks.

Dosing — being independently re-sourced

ClinCalc Pro is rebuilding its dose data from primary open sources — the manufacturer SmPC (eMC), the WHO Model Formulary and other official references — under clinician review. This drug's structured dose is not yet published here. Confirm all doses against the product SmPC and your local formulary before prescribing.

Clinical monograph

How it works

The rapid-acting lispro fraction controls post-meal glucose while the protaminated fraction provides a longer background effect; both lower blood glucose by enhancing cellular glucose uptake and reducing hepatic glucose production.

Prescribing in practice

  • Hypoglycaemia is the principal hazard — the rapid component acts promptly, so the dose must be matched to meals and given in close relation to eating.
  • Resuspend the cloudy suspension gently before each dose and never give it intravenously.
  • Insulin requirements vary with illness, exercise, weight and renal function, and changes between insulin brands should be supervised.

Monitoring

Monitor capillary and longer-term blood glucose (HbA1c), injection sites and for hypoglycaemia, adjusting doses to meals and activity.

Counselling the patient

  • Mix the pen until evenly cloudy and inject around mealtimes as directed.
  • Know how to recognise and treat a hypo, and rotate injection sites.
  • Never share pens or needles and review monitoring when unwell.

Evidence & guidelines

Premixed insulin lispro is supported by randomised trials showing effective control of post-prandial and overall glycaemia in diabetes.

Reference: NICE NG28; NICE NG17; JBDS; Confirm identity and dosing against the manufacturer SPC (eMC) and NICE. Verify against your local formulary and current prescribing references before prescribing. Monograph status: clinician-reviewed (2026-07-04).

Related

Curated clinical cross-links plus same-class fallbacks.

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