The ReliOn Brand: A Partnership for Affordability
ReliOn is the private brand name used by Walmart for its line of diabetes care products, most notably insulin [1.2.3, 1.7.3]. While ReliOn is the store brand, the insulin itself is manufactured by Novo Nordisk, a global pharmaceutical leader [1.2.1, 1.2.4]. This partnership allows Walmart to offer insulin at a significantly lower cash price, making it a critical resource for uninsured or underinsured individuals. The collaboration began with older, human insulins and later expanded to include a co-branded analog insulin, ReliOn™ NovoLog® [1.8.1, 1.9.1].
This initiative aims to address the insulin affordability crisis by providing predictable, low-cost options. For example, the launch of ReliOn™ NovoLog® was projected to save customers 58% to 75% off the cash price of branded analog insulin products [1.7.2].
Types of ReliOn Insulin: Human vs. Analog
Walmart offers several types of insulin under the ReliOn brand, which can be categorized into two main groups: human insulins and analog insulins. They have different action profiles and costs.
Human Insulins
These were the first types of genetically engineered insulins and have been available since the 1980s [1.9.1]. They are generally more affordable but may not offer the same precision in blood sugar control as newer analog insulins [1.7.3]. A prescription may not be required for these in many locations, but they are kept behind the pharmacy counter [1.3.2, 1.7.1].
- ReliOn™ Novolin® R (Regular): This is a short-acting insulin [1.3.4]. It typically begins to work within 30 minutes, peaks between 1.5 to 3.5 hours, and lasts for up to 8 hours [1.4.4]. It is meant to be taken about 30 minutes before a meal to control the spike in blood sugar from food [1.4.3].
- ReliOn™ Novolin® N (NPH): This is an intermediate-acting insulin [1.3.5]. Its onset is slower, starting to work in 1.5 to 2 hours, with a peak effect between 4 and 12 hours. Its effects can last up to 24 hours [1.5.5]. It helps control blood sugar throughout the day or overnight.
- ReliOn™ Novolin® 70/30: This is a premixed insulin, containing 70% NPH (intermediate-acting) and 30% Regular (short-acting) insulin [1.3.2, 1.6.1]. It provides both mealtime and longer-lasting coverage. It starts working in about 30-60 minutes, peaks between 2 and 12 hours, and lasts up to 24 hours [1.6.1].
Analog Insulins
Analog insulins are a more modern type of insulin where the molecular structure has been slightly modified to create either a more rapid or a more predictable, long-lasting action compared to human insulin [1.9.3].
- ReliOn™ NovoLog® (Insulin Aspart): This is a rapid-acting analog insulin and is the exact same drug as the brand-name NovoLog® [1.2.2, 1.9.1]. It is used to control blood sugar during meals and starts working very quickly, often within 10-20 minutes [1.9.3]. A prescription is required for this product [1.8.1].
- ReliOn™ NovoLog® Mix 70/30: This is a mix of 70% insulin aspart protamine (an intermediate-acting analog) and 30% insulin aspart (a rapid-acting analog) [1.7.1]. It offers both mealtime and extended blood sugar control and requires a prescription [1.8.2].
Pharmacology & Action Profile Comparison
The primary pharmacological function of any insulin is to regulate glucose metabolism by helping cells absorb glucose from the blood and preventing the liver from producing excess glucose [1.4.3]. The key differences lie in their onset (how fast they start working), peak (when they are most effective), and duration (how long they last).
| Insulin Type | Onset of Action | Peak Action Time | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ReliOn Novolin R | 30 minutes [1.4.4] | 1.5 - 3.5 hours [1.4.4] | Up to 8 hours [1.4.4] | Short-acting human insulin; taken before meals. |
| ReliOn Novolin N | 1.5 - 2 hours [1.5.5] | 4 - 12 hours [1.5.5] | Up to 24 hours [1.5.5] | Intermediate-acting human insulin; provides basal coverage. |
| ReliOn Novolin 70/30 | 30 - 60 minutes [1.6.1] | 2 - 12 hours [1.6.1] | Up to 24 hours [1.6.1] | Premixed human insulin; provides both basal and mealtime coverage. |
| ReliOn NovoLog | 10 - 20 minutes [1.9.3] | 1 - 3 hours (approx.) | 3 - 5 hours (approx.) | Rapid-acting analog insulin; requires a prescription. |
Important Safety Note: The action profiles are estimates and can vary significantly from person to person based on factors like injection site, activity level, and individual metabolism [1.5.2]. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or switching insulin types. Changing insulin requires medical supervision to adjust dosage and avoid dangerous high or low blood sugar [1.6.2].
Cost and Accessibility
Accessibility is the cornerstone of the ReliOn insulin program. The human insulins (R, N, and 70/30) are available at a low cost, with vials starting at around $24.88 and pens around $42.88 [1.7.1]. The analog ReliOn™ NovoLog® insulin, while more expensive than the human insulins, offers substantial savings compared to its branded counterpart, with vials starting around $72.88 and a pack of pens around $85.88 [1.7.2, 1.7.4].
While human insulins can often be purchased without a prescription (depending on state law), the newer analog insulins like ReliOn™ NovoLog® always require a prescription from a healthcare provider [1.8.4].
Conclusion
ReliOn is Walmart's brand of insulin, manufactured by Novo Nordisk, designed to provide affordable and accessible diabetes care [1.2.1]. It includes both older, over-the-counter human insulins (Novolin R, N, 70/30) and newer, prescription-based analog insulins (NovoLog) that are identical to their more expensive brand-name counterparts [1.9.1]. By understanding the different types, their pharmacological actions, and costs, patients with diabetes can have more informed discussions with their healthcare providers about managing their condition effectively and affordably.
For more comprehensive information on diabetes management, visit the American Diabetes Association.
