Humalog is rapid-acting insulin lispro. It comes in U-100 and U-200 presentations, with different devices and handling instructions.
The approved uses and formulations described here follow US prescribing information. They may differ in other countries.
| Medicine detail | Details |
|---|---|
| Active ingredient(s) | insulin lispro |
| Medicine class | Rapid-acting mealtime insulin |
| Forms and strengths | U-100 vials, cartridges and pens; U-200 KwikPen |
Mealtime insulin
Humalog is used to improve glucose control in adults and children with diabetes. It acts rapidly and is commonly used around meals, unlike long-acting background insulin. Humalog Mix products are different: they include a protamine-containing component as well as insulin lispro.
Source: [1]
Concentration and devices
The label includes U-100 vials, cartridges and several pens, and a U-200 KwikPen. U-100 means 100 units/mL; U-200 means 200 units/mL. A pen’s dose window shows units. Do not withdraw U-200 from its pen into a syringe or perform a volume-based conversion at home.
Source: [1]
Pump use has limits
Only the appropriate U-100 formulation is used in compatible insulin pumps under the label and device instructions. U-200 must not be used in a pump or intravenously. Confirm the exact insulin, pump compatibility and backup plan with the diabetes team; a shared ingredient name is not enough.
Source: [1]
Insulin safety
Severe hypoglycemia and low potassium are important risks. Never share pens or cartridges, even with a new needle. Changes in food, activity, illness or other insulin can alter requirements. Dose changes and switches should be supervised, with a clear glucose-monitoring and hypoglycemia response plan.
Source: [1]
Checking the full product name
Check whether the pack says Humalog or Humalog Mix, along with its concentration and device. These details determine which instructions apply. Insulin lispro is the ingredient name, but that name alone does not identify every presentation. Available presentations may differ between countries.
Source: [1]
Questions and answers
Can Humalog U-200 be used in a pump?
No. The label excludes U-200 from pump and intravenous use.
Is Humalog Mix the same product?
No. Humalog contains insulin lispro, while Humalog Mix includes a protamine-containing component and has different instructions.
Should I convert units when using a U-200 pen?
The pen displays units. Do not withdraw its insulin into a syringe or improvise a volume conversion.
Related reading
Sources
Sources checked 1 October 2026. This information does not replace advice from your healthcare professional. For complete warnings and instructions, read the product information and consult the prescribing team.
Reviewed by: Mattias Hagman, PhD
About the reviewer:
Dr Mattias Hagman (PhD, University of Sydney) has an academic background and experience working with healthcare-related content and regulated industries. He has lecturing experience at international universities, including Stockholm University and the University of Malta.
Last reviewed: October 2026