Understanding Different Types of Insulin for Diabetes Management
Explore the various types of insulin used in diabetes treatment, including rapid, short, intermediate, and long-acting forms. Learn about their onset, peak, duration, and methods of administration to better understand diabetes management options.
Insulin is a vital hormone that helps regulate blood sugar levels. People with type 1 or type 2 diabetes often need insulin therapy to meet their body's needs for this hormone.
Insulin can be delivered via injections, infusions, or insulin pumps, which are increasingly common. This article highlights the main types of insulin used by diabetics.
Insulin Classifications
Insulin is categorized based on how quickly it acts and how long its effects last, as well as its source.
By Onset Speed
Rapid-acting: Begins working within 15 minutes, peaks at 1-2 hours, and lasts 2-4 hours. Examples include Apidra and NovoLog.
Short-acting: Starts within 30 minutes, peaks at 2-3 hours, and remains effective for 3-6 hours. Examples are Novolin and Velosulin (used in pumps).
Intermediate: Takes about 2 hours to act, peaks in 4-12 hours, and lasts 16-24 hours. An example is NPH (N).
Long-acting: Begins in 2-4 hours, has no peak, and lasts 14-24 hours. Examples include Lantus, Levemir, and Tresiba.
Pre-mixed Insulin
Combines rapid and intermediate insulins, starting within 10-30 minutes, peaking in 1-5 hours, and lasting 14-24 hours. Examples include Novolin 70/30, NovoLog 70/30, and Humalog Mix 75/25.
By Form
Animal-derived insulin
Human-made insulin
Analogue insulin, modified in labs for altered onset and duration
Both human and analogue insulins are used in treating type 1 and type 2 diabetes. They are administered via injections, pumps, or IV under medical supervision. Your treatment plan determines the type, dose, and method of insulin delivery.
