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Insulin, Regular (Crystalline Zinc)

Prescription
Short-Acting Insulin
Last reviewed 21 Apr 2026 · PetCare.AI Editorial Team
Species
Dog, Cat
Brands
2 available
Interactions
1 documented
Formulations
2

Mechanism of action

Unmodified human recombinant insulin that binds insulin receptors, promoting glucose uptake into cells, glycogen synthesis, and suppressing gluconeogenesis and ketogenesis. Short onset (15–30 min IV, 30–60 min SQ) and short duration (4–6h).

At a glance

Class
Short-Acting Insulin
Schedule
Prescription
Storage
Refrigerate 2–8°C; in-use vials at room temperature up to 31 days; do not freeze

Dosing

🐕

Dog

Used for DKA management and hyperkalemia emergency
Dose
0.25–0.5 U/kg
Route
IV CRI, IM
Frequency
Continuous CRI or q1h IM (DKA)
🐈

Cat

Cats are highly sensitive to insulin — use lower doses than dogs
Dose
Route
IV CRI, IM
Frequency
Continuous CRI or q4–6h IM
Educational reference only
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet. Find a vet near you →

Formulations

💊

Other — 2

Strength
Strength

Storage

Refrigerate 2–8°C; in-use vials at room temperature up to 31 days; do not freeze

Safety

Monitoring parameters

Blood glucose q1–2h during CRI/IM protocolSerum potassium q4–6h (supplement as needed)PhosphorusBlood gas (acidosis resolution)Hydration status
Educational reference only
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet. Find a vet near you →

Interactions

Major — 1

Prednisolone
major
Corticosteroids cause insulin resistance, counteracting insulin therapy in DKA management.
Management: Avoid steroids during DKA stabilization. Address underlying steroid need after DKA resolved.
Educational reference only
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet. Find a vet near you →

Brands

Other markets

Humulin R
Novolin R

FAQs

Frequently asked questions

What is Insulin, Regular (Crystalline Zinc)?
Insulin, Regular (Crystalline Zinc) is a short-acting insulin used in pets. Unmodified human recombinant insulin that binds insulin receptors, promoting glucose uptake into cells, glycogen synthesis, and suppressing gluconeogenesis and ketogenesis. Short onset (15–30 min IV, 30–60 min SQ) and short duration (4–6h).
What is Insulin, Regular (Crystalline Zinc) used for in pets?
Insulin, Regular (Crystalline Zinc) is used in veterinary medicine for: Used for DKA management and hyperkalemia emergency; Cats are highly sensitive to insulin — use lower doses than dogs.
What is the Insulin, Regular (Crystalline Zinc) dose for dogs?
For dogs, Insulin, Regular (Crystalline Zinc) is typically dosed as follows — Used for DKA management and hyperkalemia emergency: 0.25–0.5 U/kg IV CRI/IM Continuous CRI or q1h IM (DKA). Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
What is the Insulin, Regular (Crystalline Zinc) dose for cats?
For cats, Insulin, Regular (Crystalline Zinc) is typically dosed as follows — Cats are highly sensitive to insulin — use lower doses than dogs: undefined undefined IV CRI/IM Continuous CRI or q4–6h IM. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
Does Insulin, Regular (Crystalline Zinc) need a prescription?
Yes. Insulin, Regular (Crystalline Zinc) is a prescription medication and should only be administered under veterinary supervision.
Educational reference only
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet. Find a vet near you →

References

References

The PetCare.AI drug reference is built from 13 authoritative sources cited across 580 drug monographs.

Textbooks & handbooks — 5

  • Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook
  • Withrow & MacEwen's Small Animal Clinical Oncology
  • Merck Veterinary Manual
  • NRC Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats
  • Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics (Riviere & Papich)

Clinical guidelines & consensus — 4

  • ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center Guidelines
  • AAHA Diabetes Management Guidelines
  • ASPCA Poison Control Guidelines
  • RECOVER CPR Guidelines

Journals & peer-reviewed studies — 2

  • EPIC Study (J Vet Intern Med 2016)
  • JVIM FAT CAT Study

Regulatory & approvals — 1

  • CDSCO Veterinary Drug Approval Registry (1969–2026)

Databases — 1

  • Washington State University VCPL MDR1 Database
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