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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

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

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.

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.

References

References

Textbooks & handbooks

  • Plumb, D.C. Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2023.
  • Vail, D.M., Thamm, D.H., & Liptak, J.M. (eds.). Withrow & MacEwen's Small Animal Clinical Oncology. 6th ed., Saunders/Elsevier, 2020.
  • Riviere, J.E., & Papich, M.G. (eds.). Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2018.
  • National Research Council. Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats. National Academies Press, Washington DC, 2006.
  • The Merck Veterinary Manual. Merck & Co., Online edition. https://www.merckvetmanual.com/

Clinical guidelines & consensus

  • Fletcher, D.J., Boller, M., Brainard, B.M., et al. "RECOVER Evidence and Knowledge Gap Analysis on Veterinary CPR." Journal of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care, 2012;22(S1):S102–S131.
  • American Animal Hospital Association. 2018 AAHA Diabetes Management Guidelines for Dogs and Cats. AAHA Press.

Journals & peer-reviewed studies

  • Hogan, D.F., Fox, P.R., Jacob, K., et al. "Secondary prevention of cardiogenic arterial thromboembolism in the cat: The FAT CAT study." Journal of Veterinary Cardiology, 2015;17(Suppl 1):S306–S317.
  • Boswood, A., Häggström, J., Gordon, S.G., et al. "Effect of Pimobendan in Dogs with Preclinical Myxomatous Mitral Valve Disease and Cardiomegaly: The EPIC Study — A Randomized Clinical Trial." Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, 2016;30(6):1765–1779.
  • ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. Toxicology and Poison Management Guidelines. American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control

Regulatory & approvals

  • Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO), Government of India. Veterinary Drug Approval Registry, 1969–2026. Directorate General of Health Services. https://cdsco.gov.in/

Databases

  • Washington State University, College of Veterinary Medicine. Veterinary Clinical Pharmacology Laboratory (VCPL) — MDR1 Multidrug Sensitivity Database. https://vcpl.vetmed.wsu.edu/
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 →