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ProZinc Insulin for Cats and Dogs 40 units/ml 10 ml Vial product detail number 1.0

At a Glance

Helps control blood glucose and alleviate symptoms of diabetes.
It is the first and only FDA-approved insulin for cats made from recombinant DNA (DNA molecules created from the DNA of two unrelated organisms) that is identical to human insulin.
Now FDA-approved for use in dogs
The ingredients in ProZinc (protamine zinc insulin) are classified as long-acting with duration of effect for 10-14 hours.

ProZinc

ProZinc Insulin for Cats and Dogs

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Prescription required.

Learn more

Save $50 by joining PetPlus

Prescription Required

At a Glance

Helps control blood glucose and alleviate symptoms of diabetes.
It is the first and only FDA-approved insulin for cats made from recombinant DNA (DNA molecules created from the DNA of two unrelated organisms) that is identical to human insulin.
Now FDA-approved for use in dogs
The ingredients in ProZinc (protamine zinc insulin) are classified as long-acting with duration of effect for 10-14 hours.

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About this product

1. What Is the Difference Between Vetsulin and Prozinc?

Answer

Dog and cat owners use both Vetsulin and Prozinc to help minimize the risk of diabetes in their pets. They are both insulins and are used to control blood sugar levels. Low blood sugar signs may include weakness, weight gain, muscle spasms, increased thirst and urination, and so on. These are also treated as common signs of hypoglycemia. Vetsulin and Prozinc are to be given in such conditions after it is recommended by a vet. While they are not that different, Vetsulin has a bad reputation, mostly because it was called back due to quality issues. Prozinc, however, has not had such bad fortune. It maintains its quality and the drug seems to show maximum effectiveness with little to no adverse reactions.

2. Do You Shake Prozinc Insulin?

Answer

No, you should not shake the Prozinc insulin for cats and dogs. Instead, you simply have to roll the insulin vial between your palms. Shaking the insulin bottle will cause insulin particles to stick to the vial. That in turn will make the vial look frosted, and might even reduce the effectiveness of the insulin. Shaking can also lead to clumping. Besides, air bubbles might form because of vigorous shaking, and enter into the syringe when you try to draw from those vials. Rolling, on the other hand, helps mix the insulin properly while making sure that no air bubbles are formed. Hence, you should roll the vial instead of shaking it before using the insulin.

3. Do You Need a Prescription for Prozinc?

Answer

Yes, you need a prescription from a licensed vet for Prozinc. You can administer Prozinc to dogs and cats only if you have been authorized to do so by a professional vet. Along with the permission, they will also inform you regarding the dosage and the frequency. As it is a prescription drug, you cannot purchase or use Prozinc without the written authorization from a veterinary doctor.

4. Is 10 Units of Insulin a Lot for a Dog?

Answer

10 units of insulin is not a lot for a dog if it is of the right weight. The usual dosage is around ¼ unit per pound of the dog’s body weight. Hence, for a 20-pound dog, 5 units are sufficient, whereas 10 units will suffice for a 40-pound dog, and so on. The dosage amount will be prescribed by the vet, and you should not deviate from it.

5. What Kind of Insulin Is Prozinc?

Answer

Prozinc is injectable insulin for dogs and cats with diabetes. You can use Prozinc for diabetic cats and dogs as long as your vet prescribes the drug to you. You have to administer the injectable Prozinc through U-40 syringes. When you are not using them, store the vials away from light and inside a refrigerator at 2-8 degrees celsius. Keep the vials upright, and do not let them freeze. Make sure you are using up the 10 mL vial within 60 days of puncturing, and the 20 mL one within 80 days.

6. Can I Put Insulin in My Cat’s Food?

Answer

You should not put insulin in your cat’s food, because it will not be effective. Insulin should be injected using a syringe. Mixing it in your cat’s food, although not seen as harmful, will not be as effective. However, oral hypoglycemic drugs are currently being tested out. Although oral insulin administration is not as effective as injectable ones at the moment, perhaps a breakthrough will be seen sometime in the future.

7. Where Is the Best Place to Give a Dog an Insulin Shot?

Answer

The best place to give a dog insulin shots is just under the skin, and a couple of inches from the middle of its back. Ideally, the shoulder blade or hip bone will do. You should also change the location of the shot each time so that the skin does not feel sore.

8. What Happens if a Dog Misses an Insulin Shot?

Answer

Your dog might show mild signs of high blood sugar once again if it misses an insulin shot. Missing a single dose, however, is not life-threatening.

9. When Does Prozinc Insulin Peak?

Answer

Prozinc insulin’s effect peaks after 5 to 7 hours. The duration of the action lasts 9 hours. That means you can inject insulin twice a day for your diabetic cats or dogs.

10. How Do I Use Prozinc?

Answer

Prozinc is injectable insulin that you have to administer through a U-40 syringe. You have to administer Prozinc either with or right after a meal. Roll the vial containing the Prozinc between the palms of your hand. After mixing, use the U-40 syringe to draw up the prescribed dosage. Then, you inject the insulin under your dog’s or cat’s skin, either on the back of the neck or on the side.

What is ProZinc Insulin?

ProZinc is insulin combined with zinc and protamine which helps to prolong the release of the insulin into your pet's body. ProZinc requires a prescription from your veterinarian. U-40 Syringes are sold separately. ProZinc Insulin requires refrigeration and must be kept at refrigerator temperatures at all times. To ensure proper temperature, it requires overnight shipping at an additional cost.

For:

Dogs and Cats

Benefits:

Helps control blood glucose and alleviate symptoms of diabetes.
It is the first and only FDA-approved insulin for cats made from recombinant DNA (DNA molecules created from the DNA of two unrelated organisms) that is identical to human insulin.
Now FDA-approved for use in dogs
The ingredients in ProZinc (protamine zinc insulin) are classified as long-acting with duration of effect for 10-14 hours.

How it Works:

Insulin helps regulate cellular metabolism by moving all-important glucose from the bloodstream into the cells. Cats and dogs with diabetes mellitus don’t produce enough of their own natural insulin, or their own insulin doesn’t work properly. This causes glucose to persistently build up in the bloodstream, leading to health problems. PROZINC® insulin becomes the essential replacement for diabetics to get their appropriate source of daily insulin.

Cautions:

Syringes are sold separately. We recommend using U-40 syringes. ProZinc is for use in dogs and cats only. Keep out of reach of children. Avoid contact with eyes. Accidental injection may cause hypoglycemia. In case of accidental injection, seek medical attention immediately. Exposure to product may induce a local or systematic allergic reaction in sensitized individuals. Do not switch from one type insulin to another unless under the directions of a veterinarian. Changing from one insulin to another may require an adjustment in the dose. Do not give your cat/dog its prescribed dose of PROZINC® insulin if it is experiencing an episode of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia). Common causes for low blood sugar include excessive doses of insulin, failure to eat, strenuous exercise, changes in the body’s need for insulin, diabetes-inducing disease or drug effects, is not eating or is vomiting, is sensitive to protamine zinc recombinant human insulin or any other ingredients in PROZINC insulin, and do not give your cat/dog its prescribed dose of PROZINC insulin if you see clumps or visible white particles in the vial after gently rolling. SGLT2 inhibitors, are sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors which are a class of drugs that work by preventing glucose reabsorption by SGLT2s in the kidneys and promote natural glucose excretion via the urine. SGLT2s are contraindicated to be used in cats that have previously or are currently being treated with an insulin, and not labeled for use in dogs. PROZINC is veterinary insulin approved by the FDA made with recombinant technology approved for dogs and cats for reduction of clinical signs. 1

Brand Name:

ProZinc

Generic Name:

protamine zinc recombinant human insulin

What is the most important information I should know about ProZinc:

Diabetes mellitus is a disease where the body produces insufficient insulin. The low insulin levels may result in high blood glucose that could produce the following changes in a pet; increased thirst, urination and appetite; weight loss; high levels of glucose in the urine. ProZinc is not a cure for diabetes mellitus, it can control the levels of glucose in the blood to help alleviate the clinical signs. Follow any diet or exercise plan developed by your Veterinarian. The safety and effectiveness of PROZINC® insulin in breeding, pregnant, and lactating cats and dogs has not been evaluated. The safety and effectiveness of PROZINC in puppies and kittens has not been evaluated. PROZINC insulin has a two-year shelf life from the date of manufacture. Use the 10 mL vial within 60 days of first puncture. Use the 20 mL vial within 80 days of first puncture. The vial of PROZINC® insulin should be stored in an upright position under refrigeration at 36-46°F (2-8°C). Do not freeze. Protect from light.

What is ProZinc:

PROZINC® is an injectable insulin for cats and dogs that is approved by the FDA and is indicated for the reduction of hyperglycemia (high blood glucose / high blood sugar) and the clinical signs associated with hyperglycemia in cats and dogs with diabetes mellitus. PROZINC® insulin is the only recombinant human insulin approved by the FDA for use in dogs and cats with diabetes. PROZINC insulin contains protamine and zinc in the formulation which helps promote optimal and consistent glycemic control. PROZINC® insulin is designed to be used with a U-40 syringe and using non U-40 syringes may result in incorrect dosing.

What should I discuss with my veterinarian before giving ProZinc:

Do not give ProZinc to pets sensitive to Protamine zinc recombinant human insulin or any other ingredients in the ProZinc product. Do not give ProZinc during episodes of hypoglycemia. Before using ProZinc, tell your veterinarian if your pet has any other medical conditions or allergies, or if your pet takes any other prescription or over the counter medications, including vitamins, minerals, and herbal supplements. Tell your veterinarian if your pet is pregnant, nursing, or if you plan to breed your pet.

How should this medication be given:

Do not switch from one type insulin to another unless under the directions of a veterinarian. Changing from one insulin to another may require an adjustment in the dose. ProZinc should be given according to your veterinarian's instructions. ProZinc is given using a U-40 syringe only. Use of a syringe other than a U-40 syringe will result in incorrect dosing. ProZinc should not be shaken. Just prior to use, the vial should be mixed by rolling the vial between the palms of your hands. Do not reuse a syringe. Dispose of all syringes in an appropriate puncture-resistant disposal container. Dosage regimens of ProZinc will vary among patients. The recommended starting dose for cats is 0.1 to 0.3 units per lb of body weight every 12 hours. The recommended starting dose for dogs is 0.2 to 0.5 units per lb of body weight once daily. This dose should be adjusted based on changes in blood glucose levels and resolution of clinical signs. Further adjustments may be necessary with changes in the pet's diet, body weight or other medications, or if the pet develops an infection, inflammation, neoplasia or an additional endocrine or other medical disorder. Store ProZinc in an upright position, in the refrigerator, between 36°-46° F. Do not freeze. Protect from light. Keep this medication out of the reach of children and pets.

What happens if I miss giving a dose:

Contact and follow your veterinarian's directions if you miss giving a dose of ProZinc. If you cannot contact your veterinarian and your pet is eating and acting normally, give your pet the usual dose at the next regularly scheduled time. To prevent missed doses, be sure to always have enough ProZinc on hand.

What happens if I overdose the pet:

Contact your veterinarian immediately and, if your veterinarian is not available, seek other veterinary advice at once.

What should I avoid while giving ProZinc:

ProZinc should be given to dogs and cats only. ProZinc should not be administered to humans. Call a physician immediately if you accidentally inject yourself with ProZinc. Do not give a dose of ProZinc to a pet experiencing an episode of low blood glucose (hypoglycemia). Common causes for hypoglycemia include excessive doses of insulin, failure to eat, accidental doubling of insulin dose, strenuous exercise, correction of obesity or diabetes-inducing disease, drug effects. Do not give a dose of PROZINC if the pet has not eaten or is vomiting. Consult your veterinarian prior to using PROZINC® insulin in order to establish the dosing needs of your pet. As per the product insert, it is recommended to initiate PROZINC insulin for dogs with a one-daily starting dose of 0.2-0.5 IU insulin/pound of body weight (0.5- 1.0 IU/kg). The recommended starting dose for naïve diabetic dogs is the lower end of the dose range. For cats, it is recommended that PROZINC insulin be given twice per day with a recommended starting dose of 0.1 – 0.3 IU insulin/pound of body weight (0.2 – 0.7 IU/kg). Consult your vet prior to using PROZINC insulin to establish the dosing needs of your pet. Avoid contact with eyes. In case of contact, immediately flush eyes with running water for at least 15 minutes. Accidental injection may cause hypoglycemia. In case of accidental injection, seek medical attention immediately. Exposure to product may induce a local or systemic allergic reaction in sensitized individuals.

What are the possible side effects of ProZinc:

PROZINC® (protamine zinc recombinant human insulin) has been rigorously tested for safety in cats and dogs and has been approved by the FDA to be safe and effective for diabetes control (when used as prescribed). As with the use of all dog and cat insulin products, careful patient monitoring for low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) and high blood sugar (hyperglycemia), is essential to prevent possible associated complications. The most common insulin-related side effect is hypoglycemia. Signs of low blood sugar can occur suddenly and may include weakness, staggering gait, muscle twitching, coma, depression, lethargy, sluggishness, behavioral changes, seizures, convulsions, and death.

What other drugs will affect ProZinc:

PROZINC® insulin can be given with other medications, but the dose may need to be adjusted due to the medication resulting in either increased or decreased insulin requirements. Tell your veterinarian about all medications you have given your pet in the past, and any medications that you are planning to give with PROZINC insulin. This should include medications that you can get for your pet without a prescription. Your veterinarian may want to ensure that all of your pet’s medications can be given together.

Where can I get more information:

Refer to your veterinarian for general questions. For any specific product questions, please refer to the prescribing information or call Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health’s customer service line number at 1-888-637-4251. Your pharmacist has additional information about ProZinc written for health professionals that you can read. PROZINC® insulin is available in 20 mL and 10 mL multidose vials. Each mL of PROZINC insulin product contains 40 IU (international units) of protamine zinc recombinant human insulin.

ProZinc Insulin Directions:

PROZINC® insulin should be given with or right after a meal and at about the same time each day. Before administration, mix PROZINC insulin by gently rolling the vial. Once mixed, PROZINC insulin has a white, cloudy appearance. After mixing, use a U-40 syringe to draw up the dose of insulin prescribed by your veterinarian. Administer the injection under the skin along the back of the neck or on the side of the dog or cat. Do not give your cat/dog its vet-prescribed dose of PROZINC insulin if it:

Is experiencing an episode of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia). Common causes for low blood sugar include excessive doses of insulin, failure to eat, strenuous exercise, changes in the body’s need for insulin, diabetes-inducing disease or drug effects.
Is not eating or is vomiting.
Is sensitive to protamine zinc recombinant human insulin or any other ingredients in PROZINC® (protamine zinc recombinant human insulin).
Do not give your cat/dog its prescribed dose of PROZINC insulin if you see clumps or visible white particles in the vial after gently rolling

Tip:

Speak to your veterinarian about your pet's exercise and diet, as these can help maintain healthy glucose levels.

ProZinc Insulin Dosage:

Cats:
Weight	Dosage
All weights	Before using ProZinc you should have your vet the proper way to inject insulin. Your cat's injection should be given at feeding time or just afterward. Give the injections at the same time every day, approximately 12 hours apart to help your cat maintain the most stable blood glucose levels. The initial recommended dose is 0.1 - 0.3 IU insulin/pound of body weight (0.2-0.7 IU/kg) every 12 hours.

Dogs:
Weight	Dosage
All weights	Before using ProZinc you should have your vet the proper way to inject insulin. Your dog's injection should be given at feeding time or just afterward. Give the injections at the same time every day, to help your dog maintain the most stable blood glucose levels. The initial recommended dose is 0.2 - 0.5 IU insulin/pound of body weight (0.5-1.0 IU/kg) daily.

ProZinc Insulin Dosage for Horses:
Horses
Do not use!

ProZinc Insulin Ingredients:

ProZinc Insulin
Active Ingredients per mL	Amount
Recombinant Human Insulin	40 IU (International Units)
Protamine Sulfate	.466 mg
Zinc Oxide	0.088 mg
Glycerin	16.00 mg
Dibasic Sodium Phosphate Heptahydrate	3.78 mg
Phenol (added as a preservative)	2.50 mg
Hydrochloric Acid	1.63 mg
Water for injection (maximum)	1005 mg
Other: pH is adjusted with hydrochloric acid and/or sodium hydroxide.

Product Details

What is ProZinc Insulin?

For:

Dogs and Cats

Benefits:

Helps control blood glucose and alleviate symptoms of diabetes.
It is the first and only FDA-approved insulin for cats made from recombinant DNA (DNA molecules created from the DNA of two unrelated organisms) that is identical to human insulin.
Now FDA-approved for use in dogs
The ingredients in ProZinc (protamine zinc insulin) are classified as long-acting with duration of effect for 10-14 hours.

How it Works:

Cautions:

Brand Name:

ProZinc

Generic Name:

protamine zinc recombinant human insulin

What is the most important information I should know about ProZinc:

What is ProZinc:

What should I discuss with my veterinarian before giving ProZinc:

How should this medication be given:

What happens if I miss giving a dose:

What happens if I overdose the pet:

Contact your veterinarian immediately and, if your veterinarian is not available, seek other veterinary advice at once.

What should I avoid while giving ProZinc:

What are the possible side effects of ProZinc:

What other drugs will affect ProZinc:

Where can I get more information:

How to use

ProZinc Insulin Directions:

Is experiencing an episode of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia). Common causes for low blood sugar include excessive doses of insulin, failure to eat, strenuous exercise, changes in the body’s need for insulin, diabetes-inducing disease or drug effects.
Is not eating or is vomiting.
Is sensitive to protamine zinc recombinant human insulin or any other ingredients in PROZINC® (protamine zinc recombinant human insulin).
Do not give your cat/dog its prescribed dose of PROZINC insulin if you see clumps or visible white particles in the vial after gently rolling

Tip:

Speak to your veterinarian about your pet's exercise and diet, as these can help maintain healthy glucose levels.

ProZinc Insulin Dosage:

Cats:
Weight	Dosage
All weights	Before using ProZinc you should have your vet the proper way to inject insulin. Your cat's injection should be given at feeding time or just afterward. Give the injections at the same time every day, approximately 12 hours apart to help your cat maintain the most stable blood glucose levels. The initial recommended dose is 0.1 - 0.3 IU insulin/pound of body weight (0.2-0.7 IU/kg) every 12 hours.

Dogs:
Weight	Dosage
All weights	Before using ProZinc you should have your vet the proper way to inject insulin. Your dog's injection should be given at feeding time or just afterward. Give the injections at the same time every day, to help your dog maintain the most stable blood glucose levels. The initial recommended dose is 0.2 - 0.5 IU insulin/pound of body weight (0.5-1.0 IU/kg) daily.

ProZinc Insulin Dosage for Horses:
Horses
Do not use!

Ingredients

ProZinc Insulin Ingredients:

ProZinc Insulin
Active Ingredients per mL	Amount
Recombinant Human Insulin	40 IU (International Units)
Protamine Sulfate	.466 mg
Zinc Oxide	0.088 mg
Glycerin	16.00 mg
Dibasic Sodium Phosphate Heptahydrate	3.78 mg
Phenol (added as a preservative)	2.50 mg
Hydrochloric Acid	1.63 mg
Water for injection (maximum)	1005 mg
Other: pH is adjusted with hydrochloric acid and/or sodium hydroxide.

Q&A

1. What Is the Difference Between Vetsulin and Prozinc?

Answer

2. Do You Shake Prozinc Insulin?

Answer

3. Do You Need a Prescription for Prozinc?

Answer

4. Is 10 Units of Insulin a Lot for a Dog?

Answer

5. What Kind of Insulin Is Prozinc?

Answer

6. Can I Put Insulin in My Cat’s Food?

Answer

7. Where Is the Best Place to Give a Dog an Insulin Shot?

Answer

8. What Happens if a Dog Misses an Insulin Shot?

Answer

Your dog might show mild signs of high blood sugar once again if it misses an insulin shot. Missing a single dose, however, is not life-threatening.

9. When Does Prozinc Insulin Peak?

Answer

Prozinc insulin’s effect peaks after 5 to 7 hours. The duration of the action lasts 9 hours. That means you can inject insulin twice a day for your diabetic cats or dogs.

10. How Do I Use Prozinc?

Answer