A Comprehensive Chart of Insulin Types and Action Times

Insulin is a vital hormone in the body, produced by the pancreas, that regulates blood sugar levels. There are several types of insulin, each with its unique characteristics, advantages, and usage times. Understanding these differences is crucial for individuals with diabetes to manage their condition effectively.

Rapid-Acting Insulin (Rapid-Acting Insulin Analog)

Rapid-acting insulin analogs, such as insulin lispro (Humalog) and insulin aspart (NovoLog), are designed to work quickly to lower blood sugar levels after meals. They begin to work within 15 minutes of injection and can provide peak effects within 1-2 hours.

Short-Acting Insulin (Short-Acting Insulin Human)

Short-acting insulin human, such as insulin regular (Humulin R), is another type of insulin that begins to work within 30 minutes of injection. It reaches its peak effect within 2-4 hours and can last for 4-6 hours.

Intermediate-Acting Insulin (Intermediate-Acting Insulin Human)

Intermediate-acting insulin human, such as insulin NPH (Novolin N), starts working within 1-2 hours of injection and can peak in 4-12 hours. It can last for 12-18 hours.

Long-Acting Insulin (Long-Acting Insulin Human)

Long-acting insulin human, such as insulin glargine (Lantus), begins working within 2 hours of injection and can last for 24 hours or more. It provides a steady, baseline level of insulin throughout the day.

Premixed Insulin (Premixed Insulin Human)

Premixed insulin human, such as insulin 70/30 (Humalog Mix 70/30), is a combination of short-acting and intermediate-acting insulin. It starts working within 30 minutes of injection and can last for 6-12 hours.

Ultra-Long-Acting Insulin (Ultra-Long-Acting Insulin Analog)

Ultra-long-acting insulin analogs, such as insulin degludec (Tresiba), start working within 30 minutes of injection and can last for 42 hours or more. They provide a steady, baseline level of insulin throughout the day and night.

Understanding the types of insulin, their action times, and when they should be taken is crucial for effective blood sugar management. Consult with a healthcare provider to determine the best insulin regimen for individual needs. By choosing the right insulin and following a proper treatment plan, individuals with diabetes can achieve better control of their blood sugar levels and overall health.