Insulin Isophane, Beef-Pork
Insulin Isophane (NPH) is an intermediate-acting insulin derived from beef and pork sources, used to manage blood glucose levels in patients with diabetes mellitus. It has a slower onset of action compared to regular insulin and provides coverage for approximately 12-24 hours. This animal-derived insulin was commonly used before recombinant human insulins became widely available.
Animal-derived intermediate-acting insulin used to control blood sugar in diabetes.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 317598
- Generic
- Insulin Isophane, Beef-Pork
- 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.
Treatment of Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes mellitus when insulin therapy is required. May be used as initial insulin therapy and is particularly useful for patients who need basal (background) insulin coverage.
Insulin Isophane contains insulin suspended with protamine, which delays its absorption. It lowers blood glucose by facilitating cellular uptake and promoting glycogen synthesis, with peak effect occurring approximately 4-12 hours after subcutaneous injection.
Requires refrigeration before opening; do not freeze. Must be mixed gently before use as it is a suspension. Typically administered subcutaneously 1-2 times daily. Must be used as part of a comprehensive diabetes management plan including diet and glucose monitoring. Hypoglycemia is the primary risk. Animal-derived insulins have largely been replaced by human insulin analogs.
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