Human isophane insulin, often labelled NPH, is an intermediate acting insulin. It is a cloudy suspension that releases slowly to provide background cover between meals and overnight, and it is one of the most widely used insulins worldwide.

What Human Isophane Insulin Is Used For

Background insulin in type 1 diabetes
Type 2 diabetes when tablets are no longer enough
Once or twice daily regimens, often with a short acting insulin
Insulin cover during pregnancy, on specialist advice

Common Side Effects

Low blood sugar, particularly in the night or before meals
Weight gain
Thickened or dimpled skin at injection sites
Local redness

Precautions

Gently roll the pen or vial until the suspension is evenly cloudy before every injection, since an unmixed dose is unpredictable. Rotate sites within the same region. Night time hypos are the main risk with NPH, so discuss any early morning headaches, sweating or vivid dreams with your doctor. Keep unopened insulin refrigerated, never frozen.

This page is general information only. It is not a substitute for advice from your doctor or pharmacist, and it does not include dosage. Always follow the directions given to you and read the leaflet inside the pack.