Join now & save up to 80% on medication

JOIN NOW
Select Language:

Join now and save 80% on medication

Register/Login

Does Humalog Cause Weight Gain?

Share Post:

The relationship between Humalog and weight gain has been a known issue for some time. Humalog is a rapid-acting human insulin analog that is used to regulate blood sugar levels. It is the trade name for insulin lispro and is made through the chemical processing of Escherichia coli. Insulin works by increasing the sugar uptake by muscle and fat cells.

Humalog causes weight gain through several mechanisms:

  1. It inhibits degradation of fat, and protein;
  2. It enhances protein production;
  3. It reduces the calorie loss from excess sugar excretion in the urine.

In a study comparing examining the efficacy of Humalog in patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus, it was found that throughout a 12-month period, this insulin medication only caused a weight gain of 1.4kg from a baseline of about 72kg. As such, it should not raise any concerns of becoming obese with just Humalog alone.

Furthermore, patients with diabetes will also likely to increase food intake to treat or prevent incidences of hypoglycemia (condition where sugar levels drop dangerously low). As well, insulin has been known to increase appetite. These factors combined with the use of insulin therapy explain why weight gain is common among patients being treated with insulin. A red herring issue regarding Humalog is that, when combined with an oral anti-diabetic drug class called thiazolidinediones, there is risk of causing heart failure that can substantially increase weight gain amongst other symptoms such as shortness of breath, and ankle or feet swelling.

If you notice an abnormal increase in your weight, contact your doctor. You may need to switch your insulin or include a different diet and exercise regime in your treatment.

Disclaimer: Please note that the contents of this community article are strictly for informational purposes and should not be considered as medical advice. This article, and other community articles, are not written or reviewed for medical validity by Canadian Insulin or its staff. All views and opinions expressed by the contributing authors are not endorsed by Canadian Insulin. Always consult a medical professional for medical advice, diagnosis, and treatment.
Profile image of CDI Staff Writer

Written by CDI Staff WriterOur internal team are experts in many subjects. on June 17, 2022

Related Articles

Weight Loss
Top 7 Facts Comparing Mounjaro vs Saxenda for Weight Loss

Weight loss journeys are personal and often challenging, but advancements in medicine have created powerful options to support long-term results. Two of the most talked-about medications today are Mounjaro and…

Read More
Diabetes, Hypertension
Managing Diabetes and Hypertension: Best Practices for 2025

Diabetes and hypertension are two of the most widespread chronic health conditions affecting adults globally. Together, they build a complex health challenge that can significantly raise the likelihood of heart…

Read More
Weight Loss
5 Ways To Increase Weight Loss on Wegovy Safely & Effectively

Wegovy has quickly gained attention as a powerful prescription tool for those struggling with obesity or excess weight. As a GLP-1 receptor agonist, it works by regulating appetite, slowing digestion,…

Read More
Weight Loss
Saxenda vs Ozempic: Which Weight Loss Drug Works Better?

Weight management has become a growing health priority for many individuals seeking sustainable results. With multiple prescription options now available, people often find themselves choosing between two well-known injectable medications,…

Read More