Human Mixtard

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Medically reviewed

Laura Arias

Last updated on 22/12/2025

This page provides general, reference-level information compiled from official medical sources. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For decisions about your health, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.

Overview of Human Mixtard

Property Description
Active ingredient Insulin Regular and Insulin Isophane (NPH)
Form Aqueous Suspension for Injection
Pharmacological class Anti-diabetic agent; Insulin and analogues
Common use Blood sugar regulation (Exogenous insulin replacement)
Origin Recombinant DNA derived Human Insulin

What Type of Combination Insulin is Human Mixtard?

Human Mixtard is an anti-diabetic agent that serves as an exogenous insulin replacement therapy. It is consistently classified pharmacologically under the Insulin and analogues class, which is vital for managing glucose metabolism. This product is defined as a combination insulin product because it contains a fixed blend of two distinct human insulins. The active ingredient is human insulin produced through recombinant DNA technology, ensuring its molecular structure is identical to naturally produced insulin. As a standard component of diabetes management, its general therapeutic purpose is to achieve overall glucose lowering and reliable blood sugar regulation in individuals requiring insulin therapy.

Understanding the Biphasic 30/70 Composition and Form

The core of this preparation is its biphasic formulation, established by a fixed 30/70 ratio of its active components. This blend consists of 30% Insulin Regular (the rapid-acting component, or soluble insulin) and 70% Insulin Isophane (the intermediate-acting component, known as NPH). The drug entity is supplied as a sterile aqueous suspension for injection, intended for subcutaneous injection. The biphasic 30/70 ratio is clinically recognized for its ability to address both immediate and sustained insulin needs simultaneously, which is a key differentiator from single-component insulins.

What is the General Purpose of a Dual-Action Formulation?

The general purpose of this dual-action profile is to provide comprehensive, time-released hypoglycemic action that closely mirrors the body’s physiological needs. Fixed-mix human insulins are effective in achieving glycemic control. The simultaneous availability of both rapid- and intermediate-acting insulins addresses both immediate post-meal glucose rises and continuous background glucose control, providing sustained blood sugar regulation and facilitating simplified management.

Regulatory References

  1. National Institutes of Health, NIH

What side effects are possible with Human Mixtard?

Possible side effects and safety information

The safety profile for Human Mixtard, a combination of soluble and isophane human insulin, is consistently described in regulatory documents based on classified frequency and system-organ effects. The most significant and Very Common adverse reaction is Hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar), which is the primary factor defining the overall risk profile of this therapy.

Official Adverse Reactions and Classifications

Adverse reactions are formally grouped into System-Organ Classes, with effects categorized by official frequency. Reactions such as swelling (Oedema) and various Injection Site Reactions (e.g., pain, redness, bruising) are officially classified as Common. Uncommon effects, affecting up to 1 in 100 individuals, include Lipodystrophy (local fat tissue changes), Peripheral Neuropathy (transient sensory disturbance), and local Hypersensitivity.

Serious Safety Characteristics

Regulatory documents highlight Severe Hypoglycaemia and Generalized Hypersensitivity Reactions (Anaphylaxis) as the most critical safety concerns. These are potentially life-threatening and require specific safety constraints. The medicine is contraindicated in individuals who are currently experiencing hypoglycaemia or who have a known hypersensitivity to the product components.

Time-Related Patterns and Special Populations

Safety characteristics may vary with exposure. Effects such as oedema and temporary vision changes are officially noted to occur more frequently at the beginning of treatment. Conversely, Lipodystrophy is associated with long-term use and improper injection rotation. Furthermore, official safety notes require intensified glucose monitoring for special populations, including Older Adults and individuals with documented Renal or Hepatic Impairment, to inform dose consideration.

Overdose and Emergency Response

Overdose and When to Seek Help

The primary clinical manifestation of Human Mixtard overdose, as officially defined in regulatory labeling, is Hypoglycaemia (low blood glucose levels). This condition presents with a predictable spectrum of symptoms and potential severe outcomes.

Manifestations and Severe Outcomes Mild manifestations of overdose documented in official sources include sweating, tremor, palpitations, headache, anxiety, nausea, and pale, cold skin. If the overdose is not reversed, the severity increases to involve the central nervous system, leading to confusion, drowsiness, and difficulty concentrating. Severe hypoglycaemia is documented to escalate to unconsciousness and convulsions (seizures). Regulatory authorities emphasize that severe, prolonged episodes carry the risk of permanent impairment of brain function or even death.

Required Emergency Actions Urgent medical attention is required for any severe or prolonged manifestation. Treatment for mild hypoglycemia is the administration of oral glucose or readily available sugary products. For severe overdose leading to unconsciousness, official guidance mandates immediate professional administration of Glucagon or Intravenous glucose. Intravenous glucose is required if there is no response to Glucagon within 10–15 minutes. Due to the intermediate-acting component, continued observation and blood glucose monitoring are necessary after initial recovery to address the documented risk of delayed hypoglycemia.

Therapeutic Uses of Human Mixtard

Human Mixtard is commonly used in the long-term management of Diabetes Mellitus. It is generally applied in addressing patients with Type 1 Diabetes and those with Type 2 Diabetes whose condition requires management of systemic imbalance. The therapy is relevant for patients whose condition presents with significant symptomatic burden.

Controlling Sustained and Post-Meal High Blood Sugar

This medication plays a role in managing symptom clusters related to systemic imbalance, specifically Hyperglycemia. It is used for managing both the persistent high blood sugar levels and the symptoms associated with acute or episodic changes like the glucose excursions that occur after meals. The combination of different insulin components contributes to achieving more consistent glucose management and helps ease the load of elevated blood sugar, which supports general well-being during symptomatic periods.

Benefits of Dual-Action Coverage

Human Mixtard is commonly used across conditions characterized by periods of heightened symptoms when supportive coverage for both continuous and immediate needs is relevant. This fixed-ratio formulation may assist with maintaining functional stability.

“The primary purpose is to help control the high blood sugar levels that can create noticeable physiological strain.”

This provides supportive relief when symptoms interfere with routine activities in adults, adolescents, and children.


Quick Fact: Support for Symptoms related to Systemic Imbalance

The unique composition assists with maintaining functional stability by addressing symptom patterns that require continuous and immediate support.

Regulatory References

  1. European Medicines Agency assessment of Mixtard

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

This section summarizes the official eligibility and non-eligibility information for Human Mixtard (a premixed human insulin formulation), strictly based on governmental regulatory documents such as those from the EMA and FDA.

Populations for Whom Use is Contraindicated

Use of Human Mixtard is strictly contraindicated in two circumstances:

  • Hypoglycemia: During episodes of low blood sugar or when hypoglycemia is suspected.
  • Hypersensitivity: In individuals with a known allergy or hypersensitivity to human insulin or any of the product's inactive ingredients.

Populations Requiring Conditional Use

Most populations are eligible for use but require close medical supervision and dose management:

  • Organ Impairment: Patients with renal or hepatic (liver) impairment may have reduced insulin requirements, necessitating intensified glucose monitoring and individual dose adjustment.
  • Age Groups: The medicine is allowed for use in children and adolescents (paediatric population) and the elderly (≥ 65 years), both of whom require intensified blood glucose monitoring and individual dose adjustment.
  • Pregnancy and Lactation: Use is allowed during pregnancy and breastfeeding as insulin does not cross the placental barrier; however, intensified control and dose adjustment are necessary.
  • Concomitant Therapy: Use with pioglitazone (a diabetes medicine) is conditional, as this combination has been associated with reports of cardiac failure; patients must be monitored for signs of heart failure.

Use Restrictions

  • The product is not to be used in insulin infusion pumps.
  • Multi-dose pens must never be shared between patients to prevent the transmission of blood-borne pathogens.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

The interaction profile of Human Mixtard (Insulin Regular and Insulin Isophane) is defined by pharmacodynamic effects with co-administered substances that influence glucose metabolism. These interactions are classified based on whether they enhance or reduce the medicine's core blood sugar lowering effect, as documented in regulatory labeling.

Substances that Enhance Glucose-Lowering Effect

Co-administration with medicines such as oral antidiabetic products, Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOI), Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, salicylates, and anabolic steroids may enhance the glucose-lowering action of human insulin. This outcome, defined as pharmacodynamic reinforcement, translates to a potential reduction in the patient’s insulin requirement.

Substances that Reduce Glucose-Lowering Effect

Conversely, products including glucocorticoids, thyroid hormones, diuretics (thiazides), sympathomimetics, and oral contraceptives are officially documented to reduce the medicine’s effect. This antagonistic action necessitates vigilance for potentially increased blood glucose exposure.

Specific Interaction Warnings

Two critical pharmacodynamic outcomes are noted in official labeling. Co-administration with beta-blockers may mask the typical warning symptoms of hypoglycemia. Furthermore, the combination of insulin with Pioglitazone is associated with an increased risk of cardiac failure, a formal non-glycemic interaction warning.

Drug-Substance and Formulation Restrictions

Alcohol is documented to either intensify or reduce the glucose-lowering effect of human insulin. A mandatory restriction also applies to the physical form of the product: the Human Mixtard suspension must not be mixed or diluted with any other medicinal product to preserve its formulation integrity.

Mechanism of Action

Human Mixtard, a premixed suspension of soluble (fast-acting) and isophane (intermediate-acting) human insulin, functions as an agonist at the insulin receptor (IR) on target tissues, primarily skeletal muscle, adipose tissue, and the liver. Following subcutaneous injection, both components bind to the alpha-subunit of the membrane-bound, heterotetrameric IR. This binding induces a conformational change, activating the tyrosine kinase activity intrinsic to the beta-subunit.

IR autophosphorylation initiates a downstream signaling cascade, primarily through Insulin Receptor Substrate (IRS) proteins. Phosphorylated IRS proteins recruit and activate Phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K), which generates Phosphatidylinositol (3,4,5)-trisphosphate ( PIP3). PIP3 then activates PDK1, leading to the phosphorylation and activation of Akt/PKB. In muscle and fat cells, activated Akt promotes the translocation of GLUT4 glucose transporters from intracellular vesicles to the plasma membrane, facilitating glucose uptake from the systemic circulation. Concurrently, within the liver, insulin modulates the activity of key enzymes: it promotes glycogen synthesis by activating glycogen synthase and suppresses hepatic glucose production by inhibiting glycogenolysis and gluconeogenesis. System-level, this composite molecular action results in a biphasic modulation of circulating glucose concentration, with an initial rapid reduction followed by a sustained, prolonged reduction, achieved by the two different absorption characteristics of the formulation's insulin components.

Dosage and Administration Information

Administration Process

Human Mixtard is typically administered via subcutaneous injection into the abdominal wall, the thigh, the upper arm, or the gluteal region. The absorption of the insulin may vary depending on the chosen injection site. To minimize the risk of localized skin changes, such as thickening or pitting, the specific injection point within a given area should be rotated with every administration.

Preparation of the Suspension

This medication is a white, cloudy suspension that requires uniform mixing before use. The vial or cartridge should be gently agitated—usually by rolling between the palms or inverting the container—until the liquid appears uniformly white and cloudy. It is important to ensure the insulin has reached room temperature before preparation to facilitate easier mixing.

Injection Timing

Human Mixtard is a dual-acting insulin containing both fast-acting and intermediate-acting components. Because of the fast-acting insulin content, it is generally administered shortly before a meal. Maintaining a consistent routine regarding the timing of injections and food intake helps in managing blood glucose levels effectively.

Monitoring and Storage

Regular monitoring of blood glucose levels is a standard part of using insulin therapy. The medication must be stored according to the specific temperature requirements to maintain its efficacy. Users should inspect the appearance of the suspension before every dose; if the insulin remains clear after mixing or contains solid white particles after agitation, it should not be used.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Research Evidence / Overview of Studies for Human Mixtard

The research for Human Mixtard (insulin human 30/70) focuses on its application as an insulin replacement therapy. This overview describes the structure of that evidence, including the types of studies that have been conducted and the areas where information remains limited.


Evidence for Use in Long-Term Diabetes Management

The evidence base for fixed-mix human insulin was studied for its use in clinical trials and regulatory reviews. These studies, which include short-term Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs) and observational analyses, focused on adults with Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes who require insulin to manage their conditions characterized by fluctuating or episodic manifestations. The research has specifically examined its profile as a dual-action therapy, which is characterized by a fixed ratio of rapid-acting and intermediate-acting insulin.

The studies monitored several key outcomes related to systemic or functional imbalance. Research examined the biomarker HbA1c (Glycated Hemoglobin), a key measurement used to track average blood sugar levels over a study period. Comparative trials explored the outcomes measured against similar insulin treatments.

Research Focus: Glucose Biomarkers and Comparative Trials

The trials primarily focus on blood sugar biomarkers. Researchers examined outcomes that included changes in Glycated Hemoglobin (HbA1c), along with short-term measures like blood sugar before and after meals (FPG and PPG). Comparative trials research examined fixed-mix human insulin against other insulin regimens to assess measured outcomes.

What is Still Uncertain About the Research for Human Mixtard

A core limitation acknowledged in the research is the fixed proportion of 30% rapid-acting and 70% intermediate-acting insulin. This fixed mix was observed in studies where the ability to individually adjust the ratio was not possible, which can be a factor for patients with unique and constantly changing needs.

The comparative evidence is limited by the fact that many head-to-head trials had follow-up durations that were limited to a few months. Therefore, certainty remains low when making claims about significant differences in long-term blood sugar control. The evidence base continues to evolve, as research is ongoing in this area.

Key Studies & References

  1. Insulin Injection (Regular and NPH) (MedlinePlus - National Institutes of Health)
  2. A Study of Biphasic Insulin Aspart 30 in Subjects With Type 2 Diabetes (ClinicalTrials.gov - NCT06855615)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Human Mixtard (FAQ)


Q: What types of diabetes is Human Mixtard indicated to treat?

Regulatory documents indicate that Human Mixtard is used for the treatment of diabetes mellitus. This includes its use in both adults and the pediatric population (children and adolescents) for the management of both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes.


Q: How does Human Mixtard differ from a purely long-acting insulin, according to official descriptions?

Official product information classifies Human Mixtard as a biphasic or dual-acting insulin. This means it provides both a component that works rapidly and another component that has a prolonged effect. This contrasts with purely long-acting insulins, which are typically designed to create a steady, continuous effect without distinct peaks.


Q: What are the general expectations for how quickly Human Mixtard begins to lower blood sugar?

According to the official product information, Human Mixtard is generally expected to begin its blood sugar lowering action within 30 minutes after being administered under the skin. This relatively rapid onset is due to the fast-acting component within the mixed formulation.


Q: What is the typical duration of action described for Human Mixtard in official sources?

According to the official product monograph, the combined action of the two insulins in the formulation provides a total duration of action that can last up to 24 hours.


Q: Is it normal to see the Human Mixtard suspension as cloudy or milky before mixing?

Yes, as a suspension, the intermediate-acting insulin component naturally settles to the bottom when the product is not in use. This settling is why the liquid may appear non-uniform before resuspension. Regulatory guidelines state that the product must be rolled or inverted until it is uniformly white and cloudy before injection.


Q: Why must the Human Mixtard suspension be gently rolled or inverted before each use?

Human Mixtard is a suspension containing two types of insulin that must be evenly mixed before injection. Regulatory guidelines state that the product must be gently resuspended until it appears uniformly white and cloudy. This step is necessary to ensure that the correct dose of both the rapid-acting and intermediate-acting insulin components is delivered.


Q: What is the scientific basis for requiring a short waiting period before administering Human Mixtard after removal from refrigeration?

Administration guidelines state that the suspension is easier to mix when it is at room temperature, rather than immediately after removal from the refrigerator. Reaching room temperature allows for the proper resuspension of the two insulin components by rolling or inverting the product.


Q: How does a user know if their Human Mixtard product has been stored improperly?

Official product information notes that the product should not be used if there is a suspicion that it has been frozen, or if the appearance of the insulin is incorrect. An improperly stored product may not appear uniformly white and cloudy after it has been properly resuspended.


Q: Is the absorption rate of Human Mixtard different when injected into the abdomen versus the thigh?

Official product information indicates that the absorption of the medicine into the bloodstream can vary depending on the injection site. Specifically, injection into the subcutaneous tissue of the abdomen generally results in faster absorption when compared to other recommended sites, such as the thigh or upper arm.


Q: What are the official recommendations for managing a delayed or missed administration of Human Mixtard?

Official patient information and regulatory guidance typically do not provide standardized instructions for managing a missed or delayed dose. Due to the varying duration of the two insulins in the mix, individualized guidance from a qualified health professional is generally required in such circumstances.


Q: What are the differences between Human Mixtard 30/70 and other pre-mixed insulin formulations?

Official regulatory context indicates that Human Mixtard, as a human insulin, has a specific onset and duration profile. Other pre-mixed formulations, such as those that use insulin analogues, may have different characteristics, including a potentially faster onset of action and a varied profile for after-meal glucose control.


Q: What are the described signs and symptoms of a possible allergic reaction to Human Mixtard?

Regulatory documents highlight that a severe generalized hypersensitivity reaction (anaphylaxis) is a critical safety concern. Symptoms described may include a generalized skin rash, itching, sweating, swelling (angioedema), difficulty breathing, palpitation, and reduction in blood pressure.


Q: Why do some people experience a temporary increase in weight when starting insulin therapy like Human Mixtard?

Weight gain is listed in official product information as a common side effect associated with the use of Human Mixtard. Regulatory documents suggest this effect may be due to insulin's anabolic (building up tissue) nature, or a reduction in the loss of glucose through urine.


Q: Are there official statements about how exercise intensity can impact the blood sugar lowering effect of Human Mixtard?

Official patient information acknowledges that changes to the usual amount of physical exercise or dietary habits may influence blood sugar levels. Because of this, changes in exercise patterns may also impact a person's individual insulin requirements.


Q: Does Human Mixtard affect kidney function?

Regulatory information indicates that Human Mixtard should be used with caution in patients with pre-existing kidney disease. Patients with renal impairment (a reduction in kidney function) may require individualized dose adjustments and intensified glucose monitoring, as their insulin needs may be reduced.

How should Human Mixtard be stored and disposed of?

Official Storage and Disposal Requirements

Official regulatory documents define strict conditions for storing and disposing of Human Mixtard (Insulin Human) to ensure stability and safety.

Product State Temperature Requirement Stability / Duration
Unopened (Not in use) Refrigerate: 2 C to 8 C Until expiration date
Opened (In use) Room Temperature: Below 25 C or 30 C Use within 28–35 days

Handling Constraints:

The product must be protected from light and kept in the original outer carton. It is strictly mandated not to freeze Human Mixtard, and frozen product must be discarded. The medicine must be stored out of the sight and reach of children.

Disposal Rules:

Expired or unused medicine should be returned to a pharmacy or designated collection program; it must not be disposed of via household trash or wastewater. Used needles and other sharps must be discarded in an appropriate sharps container after each use.

Attention! Always consult to a doctor or pharmacist before using pills or medicines.

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