Humalog and Novolog are two rapid-acting insulins to control blood sugar in those with diabetes. Both drugs are highly effective in lowering blood glucose levels.
Key Takeaways
- Humalog and Novolog are rapid-acting insulin medications used to manage blood sugar in people with diabetes.
- Humalog begins to work within 15 minutes, while Novolog takes effect in 10-20 minutes.
- The duration of action for both medications is similar, ranging from 3 to 5 hours, with individual variations.
Humalog vs Novolog
Humalog is a type of insulin lispro that is rapid-acting. It is designed to start working within 10-15 minutes after injection and peak within 30-90 minutes. The effects of Humalog last for about 3-5 hours. Novolog is a type of insulin aspart that is also rapid-acting. It is designed to start working within 10-20 minutes after injection and peak within 1-3 hours.

It is an FDA (Food and Drug Administration) approved drug to treat Type 1 diabetes in adults and children aged 3 years old and older, Type 2 diabetes in adults.
This medication has been approved for use in children as young as two years old. It aids in the management of blood sugar levels in persons with Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes.
Comparison Table
Parameters of Comparison | Humalog | Novolog |
---|---|---|
Generic name | Insulin lispro injection | Insulin aspart injection |
Age restrictions | Adults with Type 1 and 2 diabetes, as well as children aged 3 years and above with Type 1 diabetes. | Adults with Type 1 and 2 diabetes, and children aged 2 years with Type 1 diabetes. |
Rapidity of action | Humalog is slower in action than Novolog. | Novolog is slightly faster in action. Takes action within 5 -10 minutes. |
Common side effects | Headache, nausea, sore throat or pharyngitis, runny nose, stomach aches, diarrhea, and muscle weakness are the common side effects of Humalog. | Headache, diarrhea, nausea, stomach ache, chest pain, and sensory disturbance. |
Cost | Humalog is slightly cheaper than Novolog. | Novolog is costly. |
What is Humalog?
Humalog is an effective drug in controlling blood sugar levels. Humalog contains insulin lispro. Humalog has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration to help persons with Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes regulate their blood sugar levels.
Humalog is safe to use in people of all ages. Humalog Mix is also premixed insulin that acts more rapidly and also has a long-lasting effect.
Each vial of Humalog contains 3 or 10 millilitres of the medication. 50 percent insulin lispro protamine and 50 percent insulin lispro are included in the Humalog mix.
Humalog is a brand-name drug. Medication of Humalog can also cause mild side effects such as headache, diarrhoea, sore throat, stomach ache, muscle weakness, etc.

What is Novolog?
Novolog is fast-acting mealtime insulin that helps to keep blood sugar levels in check after a meal. Insulin Aspart injection is the generic name for Novolog.
Novolog is a rapid-acting insulin that takes 5 to 10 minutes to take effect. Adults with Type 2 diabetes and children aged 2 and up with Type 1 diabetes will find it very useful in controlling their blood sugar levels.
The effect of the drug can be felt for up to 2 to 4 hours. Most importantly, to avoid the risk of hypoglycemia, one should intake food a few minutes later after taking the dose.
There are some common side effects along with serious side effects. Patients can face headaches, stomach aches, diarrhoea, chest pain, and sensory disturbance.

Main Differences Between Humalog and Novolog
- Humalog can be used for the treatment of 3 years old children. On the other hand, children of 2 years old can take Novolog doses for the treatment.
- The market price of Humalog is lower than the price of Novolog.
