Insulin Isophane, Beef
Insulin Isophane, Beef is an intermediate-acting insulin used to manage blood glucose levels in patients with diabetes mellitus. It is an older formulation derived from beef sources, working to mimic the body's natural insulin response between meals. This medication is typically prescribed when synthetic or human insulin is not available or suitable for the patient.
Intermediate-acting beef-derived insulin for diabetes management when other insulin types are not appropriate.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 317235
- Generic
- Insulin Isophane, Beef
- Class
- pin-variant
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- —
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Used to treat Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes mellitus in patients requiring insulin therapy, particularly when human insulin alternatives are not available or tolerated. May be used alone or in combination with short-acting insulin.
Provides intermediate-acting glucose control by facilitating cellular uptake of glucose and suppressing hepatic glucose production. Onset typically occurs within 1-2 hours, with peak effect around 6-10 hours and duration of approximately 12-24 hours.
Requires proper storage (refrigeration before use), regular blood glucose monitoring, and rotation of injection sites. Must be administered via subcutaneous injection. May cause hypoglycemia or allergic reactions. Use with caution in patients with renal or hepatic impairment. Beef insulin is less commonly used today due to the availability of human and analog insulins.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 28, 2026. · Read our editorial policy