An Overview of Generic Novolin N
Novolin
® N (NPH
insulin) is an intermediate-acting form of insulin used to help control blood sugar. It is available without a prescription. In comparison with regular human insulin,
Novolin N starts working more slowly, produces a lower (and later) peak, and has a longer duration of action.
Novolin N is made by Novo Nordisk. Although the patents for Novolin N have long expired, there are no generic versions of Novolin N (or any other insulins) available.
Currently, there are no
generic insulin medications allowed in the United States. Novolin N is considered a "biologic" medication and is regulated by different rules and laws than most other medications. At this point, generic biologics, including generic Novolin N, are not allowed to be manufactured in the United States. Currently, legislation is underway that may change the laws concerning generic biologics (including insulin), but it is not clear when (or even if) this may happen.
Is NPH Insulin the Same as Generic Novolin N?
No -- NPH insulin is the active ingredient in Novolin N (as well as various other insulins) but is not a generic version of it. What can be confusing is that, oftentimes, the active ingredient of a drug is referred to as the "generic name." The generic name is different from a generic version of a medicine. In order for there to be a generic version of a medicine, the original medicine must have gone off patent, and another company besides the original manufacturer must make the product.
