Insulin Types and Their Use
Insulin is a hormone made in the pancreas that helps move sugar from the blood into the body’s cells for energy. When your body can’t make enough insulin or can’t use it properly, you may need insulin injections. Different types of insulin work at different speeds and for different lengths of time, depending on the body’s needs.
There are five main types of insulin. Rapid-acting insulin starts working within 15 minutes and is usually taken before meals to manage the rise in blood sugar. Short-acting (regular) insulin begins to work in about 30 minutes and lasts around 6 hours. Intermediate-acting insulin takes 2–4 hours to work and lasts up to 18 hours. Long-acting insulin works slowly and keeps sugar levels stable for up to 24 hours. Ultra long-acting insulin starts working in about 6 hours and can last more than 36 hours. There is also pre-mixed insulin, which combines short-acting and intermediate-acting insulin for ease of use, especially for people who may have trouble measuring two types separately.
Each insulin type has its own onset time (when it starts working), peak time (when it works best), and duration (how long it lasts). Doctors choose the right type based on your lifestyle, meal patterns, and health needs.
It’s very important to follow your doctor’s advice when using insulin. Taking too much or using the wrong type can cause low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), which can be dangerous. Insulin should be stored properly, and used with clean needles and safe disposal methods. Always carry diabetic ID and an emergency glucagon kit in case of overdose or hypoglycemia.
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