Human Mixtard 30/70

Generic Name: Biphasic Insulin (30% Regular Insulin + 70% NPH Insulin)
Category: Injectable Anti-Diabetic (Insulin Preparation)

Description:

Human Mixtard 30/70 is an insulin combination injection used to control blood sugar in patients with Diabetes Mellitus (Type 1 and Type 2). It contains a premixed ratio of 30% soluble (regular) insulin and 70% isophane (NPH) insulin.

• The regular insulin provides rapid action to control blood sugar spikes after meals.

• The NPH insulin provides intermediate, longer-lasting control of blood sugar between meals and overnight.

This dual action helps maintain stable glucose levels throughout the day.

Uses:

• Treatment of Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus

• Treatment of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (when oral anti-diabetic medicines are insufficient)

• Control of blood sugar during surgery, infections, or when oral medicines cannot be used

Mechanism of Action:

• Regular Insulin (30%): Rapid-acting, lowers blood sugar by promoting glucose uptake into cells and suppressing glucose production in the liver

• NPH Insulin (70%): Intermediate-acting, maintains baseline insulin levels for prolonged blood sugar control

Dosage & Administration:

• Given by subcutaneous injection (under the skin), usually in the thigh, abdomen, or upper arm

• Dose is individualized by the doctor based on blood sugar levels, diet, and lifestyle

• Usually administered 15–30 minutes before meals

• Injection site should be rotated to prevent lipodystrophy (skin thickening/thinning)

Common Side Effects:

• Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar): sweating, dizziness, hunger, confusion, shakiness

• Injection site reactions (pain, redness, swelling)

• Weight gain (possible with insulin therapy)

• Headache, tiredness

Serious Side Effects (rare):

• Severe hypoglycemia → unconsciousness, seizures (requires immediate treatment with glucose)

• Allergic reaction – rash, itching, swelling, difficulty breathing

• Vision changes (temporary at the start of therapy)

• Lipodystrophy (skin changes at injection site)

Warnings & Precautions:

• Not for use in hypoglycemia (do not inject if sugar is already low)

• Dose adjustments required in kidney, liver disease, or during illness/surgery

• Avoid alcohol (increases risk of low blood sugar)

• Blood sugar monitoring is essential (fasting + postprandial + HbA1c)

• Patients should always carry glucose/sugar candy to manage sudden hypoglycemia