# Insulin in Nigeria

Insulin has 27 active NAFDAC registrations in our October 2026 copy of the register, from 6 registration holders; 4 further listings have lapsed.

- Source: https://ogbogwu.com/drugs/insulin/
- Drug class: Hormone (Insulin) (Diabetes)
- Also known as: Mixtard, Humulin, NovoRapid, Lantus, Mixtard 30/70
- Prescription required: yes
- On the WHO Model List of Essential Medicines
- Last updated: October 2026

## Price in Nigeria

As of October 2026, Insulin sells for about ₦56,425 online in Nigeria (₦21,780–₦109,500) (Actrapid, Humulin, Lantus) at HealthPlus and MedPlus. The online price is down 6% since July 2026. Open-market prices (e.g. Idumota, Ogbogwu) are often lower.

## What is Insulin?

Insulin is a life-saving hormone that is essential for the management of diabetes mellitus. Naturally produced by the beta cells of the pancreas, insulin regulates blood sugar by allowing glucose to enter the body's cells for energy. In people with type 1 diabetes, the pancreas produces little or no insulin at all, making daily insulin injections absolutely essential for survival. In type 2 diabetes, the body may still produce some insulin but not enough, or the body may not respond to it properly (insulin resistance). When oral diabetes medications such as Metformin and Glibenclamide are no longer sufficient to control blood sugar in type 2 diabetes, insulin injections become necessary. Insulin is also the treatment of choice for gestational diabetes (diabetes during pregnancy) and for diabetic emergencies such as diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA).

There are several types of insulin available in Nigeria, classified by how quickly they start working and how long their effects last. Rapid-acting insulins like NovoRapid (insulin aspart) start working within 10-15 minutes and are taken just before meals. Short-acting insulins like Actrapid (soluble insulin) start working within 30 minutes. Intermediate-acting insulins like Insulatard (NPH insulin) last about 12-18 hours. Long-acting insulins like Lantus (insulin glargine) provide a steady baseline of insulin for up to 24 hours. Premixed insulins like Mixtard 30/70 and Humulin 70/30 combine short-acting and intermediate-acting insulins in a single vial, which is convenient and widely preferred in Nigeria because it reduces the number of daily injections. Mixtard 30/70 is by far the most commonly used insulin preparation in Nigerian hospitals and clinics.

Despite being a life-saving medication listed on the WHO Model List of Essential Medicines, access to insulin remains a significant challenge for many Nigerians. The cost of insulin is a major barrier — patients typically need multiple vials every month alongside syringes, a glucometer, and test strips, and insulin pens like NovoRapid and Lantus cost considerably more than vials. Beyond cost, the cold chain requirement is a critical challenge in Nigeria. Insulin must be stored in a refrigerator at 2-8 degrees Celsius, but frequent power outages across the country make this difficult. Additionally, many patients, particularly in rural areas, lack access to refrigeration entirely. The fear of needles and the stigma associated with injections also contribute to many patients delaying insulin therapy until their condition has significantly worsened.

## What is Insulin used for?

- Essential, life-long treatment for type 1 diabetes mellitus
- Type 2 diabetes when oral medications (Metformin, Glibenclamide, etc.) no longer achieve adequate blood sugar control
- Gestational diabetes (diabetes diagnosed during pregnancy) to protect both mother and baby
- Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) and other diabetic emergencies requiring urgent blood sugar control
- Perioperative blood sugar management (controlling blood sugar during and after surgery)
- Severe infections or illness in diabetic patients where tight blood sugar control is critical

## Dosage

Always follow a doctor's or pharmacist's instructions; this is general reference information.

- Adults: Insulin dosing is highly individualised and must be determined by a doctor based on the patient's blood sugar levels, weight, diet, activity level, and type of insulin used. A common starting regimen in Nigeria for type 2 diabetes is premixed insulin (e.g., Mixtard 30/70) at 10 units injected subcutaneously (under the skin) before breakfast, with gradual increases of 2-4 units every 3-7 days based on fasting blood sugar readings. Some patients may need a second injection before dinner. For basal insulin (e.g., Lantus), a typical starting dose is 10 units once daily at bedtime. Rapid-acting insulin (e.g., NovoRapid) is dosed based on carbohydrate intake and given immediately before meals. Total daily insulin requirements for type 2 diabetes typically range from 0.3 to 1.0 units per kilogram of body weight.
- Children: Children with type 1 diabetes require insulin from the time of diagnosis. Dosing is based on body weight and is managed by a paediatric endocrinologist. A typical total daily dose ranges from 0.5 to 1.0 units per kilogram of body weight, divided between basal and mealtime doses. Children's insulin needs change as they grow and go through puberty, requiring frequent dose adjustments. Parents and caregivers must be thoroughly trained in insulin injection technique, blood sugar monitoring, and recognition and treatment of hypoglycemia.
- Elderly: Elderly patients require careful insulin dosing with a focus on avoiding hypoglycemia, which can be particularly dangerous in this age group. Starting doses should be conservative, and blood sugar targets may be less strict than in younger patients. Long-acting insulin analogues like Lantus, which have a lower risk of hypoglycemia compared to NPH insulin, may be preferred. Regular monitoring of kidney function is important as it affects insulin clearance.

Insulin is injected subcutaneously (under the skin) into the fatty tissue of the abdomen, thigh, upper arm, or buttock. Rotate injection sites regularly to prevent lipodystrophy (hard lumps or hollows in the skin). Never inject into the same spot twice in a row. Roll cloudy insulin (like Mixtard and Humulin) gently between your palms before use — do not shake. Clear insulins (like NovoRapid, Actrapid, and Lantus) do not need to be rolled. Use a new syringe or pen needle for each injection. Never share insulin pens or syringes with another person, even if the needle is changed.

## Side effects

Common: Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) — the most common and most important side effect. Symptoms include sweating, shaking, hunger, dizziness, confusion, irritability, fast heartbeat, and weakness; Weight gain (insulin promotes fat storage and can increase appetite); Injection site reactions (redness, swelling, itching, or pain at the injection site); Lipodystrophy (lumps or hollows in the skin at injection sites from repeated injections in the same spot); Mild swelling of the hands and feet (insulin oedema, usually temporary when starting insulin).

Serious (seek medical help immediately): Severe hypoglycemia (can cause seizures, loss of consciousness, coma, brain damage, and death if untreated); Severe allergic reaction (rare — generalised skin rash, difficulty breathing, swelling of face or throat, rapid heartbeat, sweating); Hypokalemia (dangerously low potassium levels, especially with high doses of insulin used in hospital settings); Lipodystrophy leading to unpredictable insulin absorption and erratic blood sugar control.

When to see a doctor: Seek immediate medical attention if you experience symptoms of severe hypoglycemia such as confusion, seizures, or loss of consciousness. Someone with you should give you sugar or a sugary drink if you are conscious, or place you on your side and call for emergency help if you are unconscious — never put food or liquid in the mouth of an unconscious person. Also see a doctor if you notice persistent lumps or hollows at your injection sites, severe or worsening skin reactions, signs of an allergic reaction, or if your blood sugar remains consistently high despite taking your insulin as prescribed. If you are having frequent episodes of hypoglycemia, contact your doctor to review your insulin dose and regimen.

## Warnings

Do not take if: Known allergy or hypersensitivity to the specific insulin preparation or any of its components; During an episode of hypoglycemia (do not give more insulin when blood sugar is already low); Use the correct type of insulin as prescribed — do not switch between insulin types or brands without medical supervision, as different insulins have different onset and duration profiles.

Interactions: Oral diabetes drugs (Metformin, Glibenclamide) — often used together with insulin, but the combination increases the risk of hypoglycemia; Beta-blockers (e.g., propranolol, atenolol) — can mask the warning signs of hypoglycemia such as rapid heartbeat and tremor; Alcohol — can cause unpredictable changes in blood sugar, increasing the risk of both hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia; Corticosteroids (e.g., prednisolone, dexamethasone) — raise blood sugar and may require increased insulin doses; Thiazide diuretics (e.g., hydrochlorothiazide) — can raise blood sugar and reduce insulin effectiveness; ACE inhibitors (e.g., lisinopril, ramipril) — may enhance the blood sugar lowering effect of insulin; Thiazolidinediones (e.g., pioglitazone) — when combined with insulin, increase the risk of fluid retention and heart failure.

Pregnancy & breastfeeding: Insulin is the preferred and recommended treatment for diabetes during pregnancy, including both pre-existing diabetes (type 1 or type 2) and gestational diabetes. Insulin does not cross the placenta and is therefore safe for the developing baby. Pregnant women with type 2 diabetes who are on oral medications such as Metformin or Glibenclamide are typically switched to insulin for optimal blood sugar control during pregnancy, although some doctors in Nigeria may continue Metformin alongside insulin in certain cases. Blood sugar targets are tighter during pregnancy to prevent complications for both mother and baby. Insulin is also safe during breastfeeding, as it is a naturally occurring hormone and does not pass into breast milk in significant amounts. Insulin requirements often change during pregnancy and after delivery, so frequent monitoring and dose adjustments are essential.

## Brands in Nigeria

Well-known NAFDAC-registered brands: Mixtard 30 (Novo Nordisk, made in Denmark); Humulin 70/30 (Eli Lilly, made in USA); NovoRapid (Novo Nordisk, made in Denmark); Lantus (Sanofi, made in Germany); Actrapid (Novo Nordisk, made in Denmark); Humulin N (Eli Lilly, made in USA); Humulin R (Eli Lilly, made in USA).
Full searchable brand list: https://ogbogwu.com/drugs/insulin/brands/

## How to verify it is genuine

1. Check for the NAFDAC registration number on the vial or pen packaging. Genuine products will have a NAFDAC number such as A6-0071 for Mixtard 30/70 or A6-0207 for NovoRapid. Verify this number on the NAFDAC website or at a NAFDAC office.
2. Look for the Mobile Authentication Service (MAS) scratch code on the pack where available. Scratch the panel and text the code to the number provided to confirm the product is genuine.
3. Buy insulin ONLY from licensed pharmacies with proper cold chain storage (a working refrigerator). Never buy insulin from open markets, roadside vendors, or any outlet where it is not being stored in a refrigerator. Insulin that has been stored at room temperature for extended periods may have lost its potency and will not control your blood sugar properly.
4. Inspect the insulin before each use. Clear insulins (NovoRapid, Actrapid, Lantus) should be completely clear and colourless with no particles or cloudiness. Cloudy insulins (Mixtard, Humulin 70/30) should be uniformly milky white after gentle mixing — do not use if there are clumps, particles, or frosting on the inside of the vial. Never use insulin that has changed colour, has an unusual smell, or has been frozen.
5. BEWARE OF COUNTERFEIT INSULIN — this is a serious and potentially fatal risk in Nigeria. Counterfeit insulin may contain no active ingredient, the wrong concentration, or harmful substances. Signs of counterfeit products include unusually low prices, poor quality packaging, missing or incorrect batch numbers, and purchase from unregistered or suspicious outlets. If your blood sugar is not responding to your insulin despite correct dosing and diet, consider the possibility of a counterfeit product and consult your pharmacist immediately.

Verify any NAFDAC number free (no login): https://ogbogwu.com/nafdac-checker/

## FAQs

### How should I store insulin in Nigeria, especially during power outages?

Insulin must be refrigerated at 2-8 degrees Celsius for long-term storage, but this is a major challenge in Nigeria due to frequent power outages. Here are practical tips for Nigerian conditions: Unopened insulin vials and pens should be stored in a refrigerator. An insulin that is currently in use can be kept at room temperature (below 25-30 degrees Celsius) for up to 28 days for most types — check the specific product leaflet. During power outages, keep insulin in the coolest part of your home, away from direct sunlight and heat. You can use a clay pot cooler (a pot-in-pot system with wet sand between them) as a low-cost alternative — this can keep temperatures several degrees cooler than the surrounding air. Small portable insulin cooler bags with gel packs are also available in some Nigerian pharmacies and online stores. Never freeze insulin, and never expose it to temperatures above 30 degrees Celsius. If you suspect your insulin has been exposed to extreme heat, do not use it — the insulin may have lost its potency even if it looks normal.

### What types of insulin are available in Nigeria, and which is most commonly used?

Several types of insulin are available in Nigeria: (1) Premixed insulins — Mixtard 30/70 and Humulin 70/30 are the most commonly used in Nigeria. They contain a mix of short-acting and intermediate-acting insulin, providing both mealtime and background coverage with just one or two injections per day. (2) Short-acting (regular) insulin — Actrapid, used before meals and in hospital settings for diabetes emergencies. (3) Rapid-acting insulin analogues — NovoRapid (insulin aspart), which works faster and can be injected right at mealtime. (4) Long-acting insulin analogues — Lantus (insulin glargine), which provides steady background insulin for up to 24 hours with a lower risk of night-time hypoglycemia. Mixtard 30/70 remains the most widely used insulin in Nigeria because it is relatively affordable, widely available, requires only two daily injections, and is what most Nigerian doctors and nurses are most experienced with. The newer insulin analogues (NovoRapid, Lantus) offer some advantages in terms of flexibility and lower hypoglycemia risk, but their higher cost limits their use to patients who can afford them.

### Is it true that once you start insulin, you can never stop?

This is a very common concern among Nigerian diabetes patients, and the answer depends on the type of diabetes. For type 1 diabetes, insulin is needed for life — there is no alternative, as the body cannot produce its own insulin. For type 2 diabetes, the situation is more nuanced. Some patients with type 2 diabetes are started on insulin temporarily — for example, during a severe illness, after surgery, or during pregnancy — and may be able to return to oral medications once the situation has stabilised. However, type 2 diabetes is a progressive condition, meaning the pancreas gradually produces less insulin over time. Many patients who start insulin for type 2 diabetes do need it long-term because their oral medications are no longer sufficient. The fear of 'being on insulin for life' causes many Nigerians to resist starting insulin even when their blood sugar is dangerously uncontrolled, which leads to devastating complications like blindness, kidney failure, and amputations. Starting insulin when your doctor recommends it is not a sign of failure — it is an important step in protecting your health and preventing complications.

## Sources

- NAFDAC Greenbook (official register of approved products in Nigeria)
- WHO Model List of Essential Medicines
- British National Formulary (BNF)
- Nigerian Standard Treatment Guidelines (Federal Ministry of Health)