Walmart does offer an affordable insulin option, specifically under its ReliOn brand, which includes both regular insulin and a new analog called ReliOn NovoLog. ReliOn NovoLog, is a rapid-acting insulin, is priced at $72.88 per vial and $85.88 for a package of five pen (less with a GoodRx coupon online at other pharmacies and has generic version called insulin aspart, much less expensive). Need prescription I believe. Might not at some places.

In addition, Walmart’s existing options like Novolin (which is a type of human insulin) are priced around $25 per vial (other information says $100 a vial so unsure on price) but these are not rapid-acting insulins. It’s a short acting (not as fast) insulin. If you’re looking for a rapid-acting insulin at a significantly lower price, ReliOn NovoLog would be the closest option. For more details, you can visit Walmart’s insulin section on their website or check with your local pharmacy.

Novolin (not to be confused with Novolog) is a brand of human insulin that is commonly used to manage blood sugar levels in individuals with diabetes. Here are some key points about its usage:

  1. Types of Novolin: The Novolin brand includes several formulations, such as Novolin R (regular insulin) and Novolin N (NPH insulin). Novolin R is a short-acting insulin that starts to work within 30 minutes and is typically taken before meals to control postprandial blood sugar spikes and peaks after 2-3 hours injection. Novolin N is an intermediate-acting insulin, which has a longer duration of action and is often used for basal control throughout the day and night

  2. Administration: Novolin insulin can be administered via subcutaneous injection, usually in the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm. It’s essential to rotate injection sites to minimize the risk of lipodystrophy (abnormal fat distribution)

  3. Dosing Schedule: The dosing schedule for Novolin varies based on individual needs, but it’s commonly taken multiple times a day. For example, Novolin R may be injected 30 minutes before meals, while Novolin N is often given once or twice daily, depending on the patient’s insulin regimen

  4. Monitoring Blood Sugar: Patients using Novolin should regularly monitor their blood sugar levels to determine the effectiveness of the insulin and make necessary adjustments to their dosing. This monitoring helps in avoiding episodes of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar)

  5. Cost and Availability: Novolin is typically more affordable than other insulin types, with prices around $25 per vial at retailers like Walmart, making it accessible for those without insurance or with high-deductible plans (might be more than $25, have to see, check GoodRX)

For more detailed information on Novolin usage, you can refer to sources such as Verywell Health and Diabetes Strong.

Yes, Novolin insulin is available over the counter in the United States. This means that individuals can purchase it without a prescription, making it accessible for those who may not have insurance or who need a more affordable insulin option. Walmart, for example, sells Novolin R (regular insulin) and Novolin N (NPH insulin) at prices around $25 per vial

NPH stands for “Neutral Protamine Hagedorn,” which is a type of intermediate-acting insulin. Here are some key details about NPH insulin:

  1. Action Profile: NPH insulin is designed to have a slower onset and longer duration of action compared to regular (short-acting) insulin. It typically starts working within 1 to 2 hours after injection, reaches its peak effect in about 4 to 6 hours, and can last up to 12 to 16 hours

  2. Usage: NPH insulin is often used to provide basal insulin coverage throughout the day and night. It is commonly administered once or twice daily, depending on individual needs. Many people with diabetes use NPH in combination with short-acting insulin to manage blood sugar levels effectively

  3. Storage: NPH insulin should be stored in the refrigerator, but can be kept at room temperature for a limited time once in use. It’s important to gently mix NPH insulin before use, as it can settle and require proper resuspension. Roll it between hands.

  4. Availability: NPH insulin is available over the counter without a prescription in the United States, making it a more accessible option for individuals managing diabetes

NPH insulin is characterized by its cloudy appearance due to the presence of protamine, which is a protein that helps prolong the insulin’s action. In contrast, regular insulin (like Novolin R) is clear. This difference in appearance is important for identification and administration

When using these insulins, it’s crucial to gently mix NPH before drawing it into the syringe to ensure even distribution of the insulin and to achieve the correct dosage. Here’s a brief overview:

  • NPH Insulin: Cloudy appearance; should be gently mixed before use.
  • Regular Insulin: Clear appearance; does not require mixing

Mixing NPH insulin before use is essential to ensure that the insulin is evenly distributed, as it can settle and separate into layers. Here’s how to properly mix it:

  1. Gather Supplies: You’ll need your vial of NPH insulin, a syringe, and an alcohol swab.

  2. Wash Your Hands: Clean your hands thoroughly to reduce the risk of infection.

  3. Inspect the Vial: Check the vial to ensure it looks normal and that it is not expired.

  4. Roll the Vial: Hold the vial of NPH insulin between your palms and gently roll it back and forth. This helps to resuspend the protamine in the insulin and mixes it uniformly

  5. Swab the Rubber Top: Use an alcohol swab to clean the rubber top of the vial before inserting the needle.

  6. Draw Up the Insulin: After mixing, insert the syringe needle into the vial, draw back on the plunger to fill the syringe with the desired dose, and then remove the needle from the vial.

  7. Check for Air Bubbles: Tap the syringe to move any air bubbles to the top, then push the plunger slightly to expel the bubbles and ensure you have the correct dose.

  8. Inject as Directed: Administer the insulin subcutaneously as per your healthcare provider’s instructions

  9. NPH Insulin: NPH insulin is indeed cloudy, and this is expected. It contains protamine, which causes the cloudiness. When you prepare to use it, you want to ensure that it is well mixed, meaning that it should appear uniformly cloudy without any clumps or layers. If it appears clear or has particles floating in it, it may be an indication that the insulin is not suitable for use

  10. Regular Insulin: In contrast, regular insulin (such as Novolin R) is clear and should not be mixed or shaken before use. This clarity indicates that it is in the proper state for administration

So, when checking NPH insulin, you are looking for it to be uniformly cloudy after gentle rolling and mixing. If it appears too clear or shows signs of separation, it’s best to consult a healthcare provider before using it.

Regular insulin (often referred to as “R” insulin) has a specific action profile regarding its duration. Here are the key points about how long regular insulin lasts:

  1. Duration: Regular insulin typically lasts about 4 to 6 hours after administration. It begins to lower blood sugar levels within 30 minutes to 1 hour of injection and reaches its peak effect around 2 to 3 hours post-injection

  2. Use in Treatment: Regular insulin is often used to manage blood sugar spikes that occur after meals, making it particularly useful for short-term control of glucose levels

  3. Dosing Considerations: Because of its shorter duration compared to intermediate- or long-acting insulins, patients may need to take regular insulin multiple times a day to maintain optimal blood sugar control, especially if they consume meals throughout the day

NPH (Neutral Protamine Hagedorn) insulin is an intermediate-acting insulin with a specific duration of action. Here are the key points about how long NPH insulin lasts:

  1. Duration: NPH insulin typically lasts about 10 to 16 hours after injection. Its onset of action is usually within 1 to 2 hours, with a peak effect occurring approximately 4 to 6 hours after administration

  2. Usage in Treatment: Due to its longer duration, NPH insulin is often used to provide basal insulin coverage, helping to maintain blood sugar levels throughout the day and night. It is commonly administered once or twice daily, depending on individual treatment plans

  3. Considerations: Patients may need to monitor their blood sugar levels closely to adjust their doses of NPH as needed, especially if they are also using short-acting insulins for meal coverage

There are several advantages to choosing ReliOn insulin, particularly for individuals who need affordable diabetes management options:

  1. Cost-Effective: ReliOn insulin is significantly less expensive than many other insulin brands. For example, ReliOn NovoLog (rapid-acting) is priced around $72.88 per vial, while ReliOn NPH (intermediate-acting) and ReliOn Regular insulin (short-acting) are priced at approximately $25 per vial at Walmart. This makes it an attractive option for those without insurance or high deductibles (also come in injection pens)

  2. Accessibility: ReliOn insulin is available over the counter at Walmart and Sam’s Club pharmacies. This means individuals can obtain it without a prescription, making it easier for patients to access the medication when needed (not sure if prescription is needed for ReliOn Novolog)

  3. Quality Assurance: ReliOn products are manufactured by reputable companies and are subject to regulatory standards. They provide an alternative to more expensive branded insulins while still maintaining quality and effectiveness in managing blood sugar

  4. Diverse Options: The ReliOn brand offers a variety of insulin types, including rapid-acting (NovoLog), intermediate-acting (NPH), and regular insulin, allowing patients to choose the formulation that best fits their treatment plan

The primary differences between ReliOn NovoLog (rapid-acting insulin) and ReliOn Regular (R) insulin (short-acting insulin) lie in their formulation, action profiles, and usage. Here’s a breakdown of these differences:

  1. Action Profile:

    • ReliOn NovoLog: This is a rapid-acting insulin that starts working within 10 to 20 minutes, peaks in about 1 to 3 hours, and has a duration of about 3 to 5 hours. It’s typically used to control blood sugar spikes that occur after meals
    • ReliOn Regular (R): Regular insulin takes effect within 30 minutes to 1 hour, peaks in about 2 to 3 hours, and lasts for approximately 4 to 6 hours. It is also used for meal coverage but is slower acting compared to NovoLog

  2. Formulation:

    • NovoLog is designed for rapid absorption and is often preferred for flexibility in meal timing. It can be injected immediately before or even after a meal
    • Regular insulin (R) is more traditional and requires careful timing, typically needing to be injected about 30 minutes before a meal to be effective

  3. Usage:

    • NovoLog is ideal for individuals who require precise control over post-meal blood sugar levels, particularly for those who have varying meal times or compositions
    • Regular insulin (R) may be more suitable for situations where longer action is acceptable or when used in combination with intermediate-acting insulins

Both ReliOn NovoLog and ReliOn Regular insulin are available in both pens and vials:

  1. ReliOn NovoLog:

    • Vials: NovoLog is available in 10 mL vials for those who prefer using syringes.
    • Pens: It is also offered in prefilled insulin pens, known as the NovoLog FlexPen, which provides a convenient option for dosing (GoodRx coupon may be cheaper than using insurance)

  2. ReliOn Regular (R):

    • Vials: Regular insulin (R) is available in 10 mL vials, making it accessible for syringe administration.
    • Pens: While it may not be as commonly found in pen form as NovoLog, it’s typically offered in vials for flexibility in administration

ReliOn NPH insulin (Novolin N) is also available in both vials and pens:

  1. Vials: ReliOn NPH insulin is typically sold in 10 mL vials, which can be used with syringes for injections. This format allows for flexibility in dosing

  2. Pens: ReliOn NPH is available in prefilled pens (often referred to as the ReliOn Insulin Pen), providing a convenient option for administering doses without the need for separate syringes

For specific availability and details, it’s best to check with your local Walmart or pharmacy, as stock can vary. More information about ReliOn insulin products can be found on Walmart’s insulin page and various diabetes management resources.

The potential for adverse effects from insulin is generally more related to the specific type of insulin and how it interacts with individual patients rather than the brand itself. Both cheaper and more expensive insulin brands can cause similar side effects. Here are some key points regarding adverse effects across different brands:

  1. Common Side Effects: Regardless of brand, common side effects of all insulins include hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), injection site reactions, and allergic reactions. These effects can occur with both cheaper brands (like ReliOn) and more expensive brands (like Humalog)

  2. Quality and Manufacturing: All insulin products, including generic and branded versions, must meet strict regulatory standards for quality and safety set by agencies like the FDA. Thus, the differences in adverse effects are not typically linked to whether an insulin is cheaper or more expensive, but rather to individual patient response and specific insulin formulations

  3. Individual Variation: Some individuals may respond better to certain types or brands of insulin due to variations in their body chemistry or diabetes management needs. For example, a patient might find that they experience better blood glucose control with Humalog compared to ReliOn NovoLog, even though both are rapid acting.

  4. Consultation with Healthcare Providers: It’s essential for patients to discuss their insulin options with healthcare providers. They can help determine which insulin type—regardless of cost—might be best based on individual health profiles, lifestyle, and diabetes management goals

In summary, while there are no inherent adverse effects directly tied to the lower cost of insulin brands, individual responses and specific insulin types can lead to varying experiences. For more detailed insights, you can refer to sources like Verywell Health and Diabetes Strong.

The most popular short-acting insulins on the market include Humulin R, Novolin R, and ReliOn Regular (R). Here’s a brief overview of each:

  1. Humulin R: This is a well-known brand of regular insulin, produced by Eli Lilly. It is commonly used in both inpatient and outpatient settings and is available in vials and pens. Humulin R is popular due to its long-standing presence in diabetes management and its reliability in controlling blood glucose levels (prescription needed)

  2. Novolin R: Manufactured by Novo Nordisk, Novolin R is another widely used short-acting insulin. It is also available over-the-counter, making it accessible for patients without insurance. Novolin R is often chosen for its effectiveness and availability in various forms

  3. ReliOn Regular (R): As an affordable option available at Walmart, ReliOn Regular insulin has gained popularity, especially among those looking for budget-friendly alternatives. Its low cost and accessibility contribute to its increasing use

ReliOn Regular (R) is generally less expensive than Novolin R. Here are some comparative price points:

  1. ReliOn Regular (R): At Walmart, ReliOn Regular insulin is priced around $25 per vial. This affordability makes it a popular choice for many patients, especially those without insurance

  2. Novolin R: In comparison, Novolin R is typically priced higher, often around $72.88 per vial. While it may offer certain benefits in terms of formulation and brand recognition, its higher cost can be a barrier for some patients

The price difference makes ReliOn Regular an appealing option for individuals looking for a budget-friendly insulin choice while maintaining effectiveness in blood glucose management. For more detailed information on pricing and availability, you can refer to Walmart’s insulin page and other diabetes management resources.

Walmart’s ReliOn NovoLog is a rapid-acting (not to be confused with Novolin which is short acting) analog insulin and is priced at approximately $72.88 per vial or $85.88 for a pack of five prefilled pens (FlexPens) (less expensive with Good Rx coupon online). In contrast, Novolin R (Regular insulin) is part of Walmart’s ReliOn brand and is generally available for about $25 per vial. I think ReliOn R is Walmart version of Novolin R.

While ReliOn NovoLog is significantly more expensive than Novolin R, it offers advantages in terms of efficacy and predictability in blood sugar management. Novolin R is considered a short-acting insulin with less predictable action compared to newer analog insulins like NovoLog (fast acting) which can lead to more stable blood sugar control

In summary, if you’re looking for cost-effective options, Novolin R is cheaper, but ReliOn NovoLog may provide better overall control for those who can afford it.

Walmart offers several over-the-counter insulin options under its ReliOn brand, which are generally more affordable compared to other brands. Here’s a breakdown of the available products and their prices:

  1. ReliOn Novolin R (Regular Insulin):

    • Price: Approximately $24.88 per vial.
    • This is a short-acting insulin used for managing blood sugar levels.

  2. ReliOn Novolin N (NPH Insulin):

    • Price: Also around $24.88 per vial.
    • This is an intermediate-acting insulin that helps control blood sugar for a longer duration.

  3. ReliOn NovoLog (Insulin Aspart):

    • Price: $72.88 per vial and $85.88 for a FlexPen.
    • This is a rapid-acting insulin, intended for use around meal times (less with GoodRx) (might need prescription also)

These options provide more accessible pricing for those without insurance or with high deductibles. However, it’s worth noting that the regular and NPH insulins are considered older formulations and may have less predictable action profiles compared to newer analog insulins

When considering over-the-counter insulin options, here’s a summary of the available products and their shelf life after opening:

Over-the-Counter Insulin Options:

  1. ReliOn Novolin R (Regular)

    • Expiration After Opening: 42 days (vial), 28 days (pen)
    • Price: Approximately $25.00 for a vial.

  2. ReliOn Novolin N (NPH)

    • Expiration After Opening: 42 days (vial), 28 days (pen)
    • Price: Approximately $25.00 for a vial.

  3. ReliOn Novolin 70/30

    • Expiration After Opening: 42 days (vial), 28 days (pen)
    • Price: Approximately $25.00 for a vial.

  4. Novolog (Insulin Aspart) (might need prescription)

    • Expiration After Opening: 28 days (both vial and pen)
    • Price: Approximately $140.00 for a vial.(might be less)

  5. Humulin R

    • Expiration After Opening: 31 days (vial), 28 days (pen)
    • Price: Approximately $25.00 for a vial.

  6. Humulin N

    • Expiration After Opening: 31 days (vial), 28 days (pen)
    • Price: Approximately $25.00 for a vial.

  7. Humulin 70/30

    • Expiration After Opening: 31 days (vial), 28 days (pen)
    • Price: Approximately $25.00 for a vial.

Summary of Shelf Life

The ReliOn Novolin R, Novolin N, and Novolin 70/30 all have the longest shelf life of 42 days after opening when stored in a vial. In contrast, most rapid-acting insulins like Novolog have a shorter shelf life of 28 days after opening.

Yes, all the insulin options listed are available over the counter at Walmart under the ReliOn brand:

  1. ReliOn Novolin R (Regular Insulin)
  2. ReliOn Novolin N (NPH Insulin)
  3. ReliOn Novolin 70/30
  4. ReliOn NovoLog (Insulin Aspart)

Additionally, other commonly known insulins like Humulin R, Humulin N, and Humulin 70/30 are also available without a prescription at various pharmacies

For more detailed information on the availability and specific details about these products, you can check Walmart’s pharmacy offerings or refer to resources like The Diabetes Council and other diabetes-related websites.

The term 70/30 in insulin refers to the proportion of the two types of insulin mixed together in the formulation. Specifically:

  • 70 represents the percentage of intermediate-acting insulin (NPH insulin).
  • 30 indicates the percentage of short-acting insulin (Regular insulin).

This combination provides both immediate and prolonged blood sugar control. The short-acting component begins to work within about 30 minutes to an hour, helping to manage blood glucose levels during meals, while the intermediate-acting insulin offers a more extended effect, typically lasting up to 12 hours

Key Points:

  • Rapid Action: The short-acting insulin covers spikes in blood sugar due to meals.
  • Longer Duration: The intermediate-acting insulin maintains a baseline level of insulin throughout the day.

This blend is designed for individuals who need both immediate and long-lasting insulin coverage in their diabetes management plan.

For someone still in the honeymoon period of Type 1 diabetes, where the pancreas still produces some insulin, choosing the right insulin regimen is crucial. Low-dose insulin options are often beneficial during this time to manage blood glucose levels without overwhelming the body’s remaining insulin production.

  1. Rapid-Acting Insulin (e.g., Novolog, Humalog):

    • Best Use: These insulins are designed for use around meals and can be helpful in controlling post-meal blood sugar spikes. They start working within 15 minutes and can last up to 4-5 hours.
    • Dosing: Low doses can be administered as needed based on carbohydrate intake and blood sugar levels

  2. Regular (Short-Acting) Insulin (e.g., Novolin R, Humulin R):

    • Best Use: This type of insulin can be taken before meals and is effective for managing blood sugar spikes. It starts working within 30 minutes and lasts about 6-8 hours.
    • Dosing: Low-dose regimens can be tailored to individual needs, depending on food intake and blood glucose levels

  3. Intermediate-Acting Insulin (e.g., Novolin N, Humulin N):

    • Best Use: While this insulin provides longer coverage (up to 12-16 hours), it may not be necessary for everyone in the honeymoon phase. It can be considered for individuals who experience fasting hyperglycemia or need overnight coverage.
    • Dosing: Lower doses may be effective for managing basal insulin needs without causing excessive drops in blood sugar

Conclusion

For low-dose insulin options, rapid-acting and regular insulins are typically the best choices during the honeymoon period. Adjustments can be made based on meal patterns and individual responses to insulin.

What is the difference between Humulin and Novolin?
Humulin and Novolin are both brands of synthetic insulin used to manage blood sugar levels in people with diabetes, but they have different manufacturers and some minor differences. Here’s a breakdown:

  • Manufacturer:

    • Humulin is made by Eli Lilly.
    • Novolin is made by Novo Nordisk.

  • Types of Insulin:

    • Both brands offer similar types of insulin:
      • Regular (short-acting) insulin (Humulin R, Novolin R).
      • NPH (intermediate-acting) insulin (Humulin N, Novolin N).
      • 70/30 mix (combination of NPH and regular insulin).

  • Formulation: The insulins are bioequivalent, meaning they work similarly in the body, but some people might find they respond slightly differently due to the differences in excipients (inactive ingredients) or how their body reacts to one brand over the other.

  • Cost and Availability: The pricing may vary between brands depending on insurance coverage or availability at specific pharmacies.

In practice, they are often used interchangeably, but it’s always best to consult a healthcare provider before switching between the two brands.

GoodRx coupon generic Novolog (insulin aspart) for 5 flex pens is $67 at Walgreens. Always check GoodRx for any insulin purchases and take the prescription to the corresponding pharmacy with the GoodRx coupon to get best price. Generic Novolog is going to act the quickest and stay in your body the shortest amount of time.

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