There are three main characteristics of insulin :
** update: an insulin comparison chart article written in 2017 with downloadable file : Click Here
Onset which is the length of time before insulin reaches the bloodstream and begins its intended action.
Peak time which is the time during which insulin is at its maximum strength in terms of lowering blood glucose levels.
Duration which is how long the insulin continues to lower blood glucose.
Different types of insulin :
Rapid-acting insulins, such as insulin lispro , insulin aspart and insulin glulisine begin to work about 15 minutes or less after they are injected, peak in about an hour, and continue to work for 2 to 4 hours.
Intermediate-acting insulin generally reaches the blood-stream about 2 to 4 hours after it is injected. it peaks 4 to 12 hours later, and is effective for about 12 to 18 hours.
long-acting insulins such as insulin glargine and insulin detemir have continuous, “peakless” action that mimics natu-ral basal (background) insulin secretion. Although it provides a long lasting effect, insulin glargine’s onset is between 2 and 4 hours, and its duration of action is approxi-mately 24 hours.
Premixed insulins may be convenient for those who mix Intermediate-acting insulin and regular into one syringe. Often, the insulin is premixed in a prefilled pen, a portable and accurate means of administering insulin, replacing the traditional vial and syringe.
The most typical mixture is 70 percent Intermediate-acting insulin and 30 percent regular. A mixture of 75 percent insulin lispro protamine and 25 percent insulin lispro. Premixed insulin can be helpful for people who have poor eyesight or dexterity. insulin pens may also be useful for people with these issues.
How to inject insulin – an easy way illustrated with images ? Full Guide is here!
Insulin formulations with brand names that are available in the market (2007):
