Substitute for Insuman Comb 50

[raruna]

I am 62 and am based in Chennai and suffering from Type 2 Diabetes Patient now on Insulin. My attending Doctor (outstation) has prescribed me Insuman Comb 50 before breakfast & Dinner (22 & 16 units) respectively and I am taking this medicine since 1 1/2 years. To have a second opinion on this drug and also to save some money, I consulted some local for an alternative/substitute one and they suggested that HUMAN MIXTARD 50 (40 IU/ML)/HUMAN MIXTARD 30/70 can be taken in lieu of Insuman Comb 50 and that the former medicine has almost similar effects as that of the latter one. I am confused about the curing effects and shall be much obliged if an expert opinion is provided whether I can consume HUMAN MIXTARD 50 / HUMAN MIXTARD 30/70 in lieu of Insuman Comb 50 and whether there would be any chance of occurrence of any complication. Your expert opinion and guidance in this regard would benefit me immensely. Thank you. Aruna

[ramana42 Volunteer]

You are on insulin as advised by your doctor.Such advise is given only after testing your blood and deliberating on your medical history.The doctor would have considered your weight,age,dietary habits and your lifestyle.You will get to know the results when go for your next review,normally after three months.In the meantime keep using the medication as prescribed.Any changes should be considered during next review.You should also monitor sugar levels at home with a glucometer.If the readings are not satisfactory,you may consult the doctor immediately.Always consult with a best doctor and follow his advise including diet,exercise,changes in life style etc.

[raruna]

Thank you for your prompt response. I am t2dm patient. I am sorry for not mentioning fully about the existing Insulin. Presently, I am administering Insuman Comb 50 (100Iul) as per the dosage. My Bank's Doctor has prescribed Human Mixtard (40Iu/ml) in lieu of Insuman without altering the dosage and is given free of charge from our Bank's Dispensary. In my anxiety to save some money (around 1k pm), I raised this query whether it is okay if I take Human Mixtard (40Iu/ml), instead of Insuman Comb 50 (100Iul) so that I can save some money (since I am retired). I am presently administering Insuman Comb 50 (100Iul) and no change in the 1u/ml and dosage and do not understand the percentage. Hence, the same is left unanswered. Trust I made my presentation clear thus removing ambiguity. Thank you once again. Regards

[patliputra]

Dear Indiacratus, Insuman combo 50 and human mixture are both prefilled pens. Both are recombinant DNA insulin. One is human while other is not.

Ramana has given him very pertinent advice.

[raruna]

Thank you all Gentleman and my doubts are cleared. I have not altered the dosage levels (22/16) and separate syringes would be used for Insuman and Human Mixtard. My intake of carbohydrate is minimum and diet is as per dietician's advice. I am extremely grateful to all those who spared their precious time in sharing their expertise and participating in this fruitful discussion. To sum up, as I understood that there would not be any harm/side effects if I shift to Human Mixtard (with the appropriate syringe). Thank you, once again. Regards