Can Humalog and Regular insulins be administered at the same time? Would this result in hypoglycemia?

There are many people who combine Regular and Humalog as part of their diabetes plan. One of the problems with recommending this combination is that there is no information from the manufacturer about mixing the insulins in the same syringe like: Are they compatible when mixed? Does mixing Regular and Humalog change the action of either one? Despite the lack of real studies about the combination, some people have discovered that the combination of the two insulins is helpful in meeting their goals.

Hypoglycemia can occur with any insulin preparation. Regular insulin is less predictable with its action and can linger for many hours after its peak. Many of the studies done at the time Humalog was coming out showed a reduction in amount of hypoglycemia when lispro was used instead of Regular insulin. It is unlikely that the combination of the two insulins would cause hypoglycemia, although inappropriate doses of either may cause a higher risk for lows.

SG
Additional comments from Jane Seley, diabetes nurse specialist:

It is possible to administer Humalog and Regular insulin at the same time if, for example, you wanted to prolong the “fast” action because of a high fat meal that would take longer to break down. Some people find that NovoLog taken alone lasts longer than Humalog and can solve the problem of a rapid acting insulin lasting long enough to cover the entire meal. In any case, you should be discussing this with your health care provider before attempting to make any of these changes on your own.

JS