What Are The Types Of Insulin?

Insulin is a hormone that is produced by the pancreas and is essential for the proper regulation of glucose in the body. It helps to lower high blood sugar levels and maintain healthy blood sugar levels. There are several different types of insulin, each with its own unique characteristics and uses. In this article, we will explore the different types of insulin, how they work, and when they are typically used.

Rapid-acting insulin

Rapid-acting insulin is a type of insulin that begins to work very quickly after it is injected. It is typically used to cover the glucose that is produced after a meal or snack. Rapid-acting insulin is usually taken just before or just after a meal. It is usually taken in combination with a longer-acting insulin to provide a more even and consistent level of insulin in the body throughout the day. Examples of rapid-acting insulin include lispro (Humalog), aspart (NovoLog), and glulisine (Apidra).

Short-acting insulin

Short-acting insulin is a type of insulin that begins to work within 30 minutes to an hour after it is injected. It is usually taken in combination with a longer-acting insulin to provide a more even and consistent level of insulin in the body throughout the day. Short-acting insulin is typically used to cover the glucose that is produced after a meal or snack. Examples of short-acting insulin include regular insulin (Humulin R, Novolin R).

Intermediate-acting insulin

Intermediate-acting insulin is a type of insulin that begins to work within 2 to 4 hours after it is injected. It provides a slower and more sustained release of insulin over a longer period of time. Intermediate-acting insulin is usually taken in combination with a rapid-acting or short-acting insulin to provide a more even and consistent level of insulin in the body throughout the day. Examples of intermediate-acting insulin include NPH insulin (Humulin N, Novolin N).

Long-acting insulin

Long-acting insulin is a type of insulin that begins to work within 6 to 10 hours after it is injected and provides a slow and sustained release of insulin over a longer period of time. It is usually taken once or twice a day and is used to provide a baseline level of insulin in the body. Long-acting insulin does not cover the glucose that is produced after a meal or snack, so it is usually taken in combination with a rapid-acting or short-acting insulin to provide coverage for meals and snacks. Examples of long-acting insulin include glargine (Lantus) and detemir (Levemir).

Combination insulin

Combination insulin is a type of insulin that contains both a rapid-acting or short-acting insulin and an intermediate-acting or long-acting insulin. It is used to provide both a rapid and sustained release of insulin. Combination insulin is usually taken once or twice a day and is used to provide a baseline level of insulin in the body as well as coverage for meals and snacks. Examples of combination insulin include 70/30 (70% NPH and 30% regular insulin) and 75/25 (75% NPH and 25% regular insulin).

Premixed insulin

Premixed insulin is a type of insulin that contains both a rapid-acting or short-acting insulin and an intermediate-acting or long-acting insulin. It is available in different ratios of rapid-acting or short-acting insulin to intermediate-acting or long-acting insulin. Premixed insulin is usually taken once or twice a day and is used to provide a baseline level of insulin in the body as well as coverage for meals and snacks.

Premixed insulin is available in both vial and pen form and can be injected subcutaneously using a syringe or insulin pen. It is important to rotate the injection site to avoid irritation and discomfort. Premixed insulin should be stored in the refrigerator, but it can be kept at room temperature for up to 28 days. It is important to check the expiration date and discard any insulin that has expired.

Examples of premixed insulin include 70/30 (70% NPH and 30% regular insulin) and 75/25 (75% NPH and 25% regular insulin). These insulins are a combination of intermediate-acting or long-acting insulin and rapid-acting or short-acting insulin, respectively. Premixed insulin can be convenient for people who need both a long-acting and a rapid-acting or short-acting insulin and want to avoid the hassle of taking two separate injections. However, premixed insulin may not provide as much flexibility in terms of dosing as taking separate long-acting and rapid-acting or short-acting insulins. It is important to discuss the use of premixed insulin with a healthcare provider to determine if it is the right option for you.