The Different Types of Insulin for Diabetics
Given the variety of ways in which diabetes can manifest, there are also a wide range of different types of insulin. The three primary categories are fast-acting, long-acting and intermediate-acting. Each has its own set of benefits and drawbacks, but the primary goal is the same for all: to keep blood sugar level within a safe range. Each type of insulin addresses a different issue associated with having diabetes, but each individual is different. Some people respond better to one form than another. In this article we look at some of the common types of insulin for diabetics and explore which factors are most important when choosing an insulin regimen. Read on to find out more.
Rapid-acting insulin
Rapid-acting insulin is just that: a fast-acting insulin. It lowers blood sugar quickly after being administered. It is the standard insulin used by people on multiple daily injections (MDI) and insulin pump therapy. Furthermore, it is also the most commonly prescribed insulin for type 2 diabetics. Fast-acting insulin is usually given before meals or before bedtime to cover for the insulin that is naturally released by the body when someone eats. It can also be given as a correction dose when blood sugar levels are too high. People who take fast-acting insulin generally have lower blood sugar levels than those who take long-acting insulin only. The risk of low blood sugar levels is also lower, but there is an increased risk of hyperglycemia (high blood sugar).
Short-acting insulin is just that: a short-term insulin. It works in the body for up to six hours after being administered. It is often used in combination with a rapid-acting insulin. When people take only short-acting insulin, they require more of it than people who take only rapid-acting insulin. This can make the treatment less convenient. On the other hand, combining the two insulin types makes the treatment more convenient, as well as more thorough. There may be a greater risk of high blood sugar levels, but only if the doses are not properly adjusted. In general, short-acting insulin is recommended for people with type 1 diabetes.
Long-acting insulin
Long-acting insulin is a long-term insulin. It works in the body for 24 hours after being administered. It is often used in combination with a rapid-acting insulin. When used correctly, long-acting insulin can be an excellent treatment option. When it is not used correctly, however, it can be a nightmare. It is therefore very important to follow a proper dosing schedule and to be aware of how one’s body responds to the different doses. Long-acting insulin can be especially difficult for people with type 1 diabetes, as it can be challenging to match the dosage with one’s insulin needs. People with type 2 diabetes may benefit from long-acting insulin, but it is important to be aware of the risk of weight gain.
NPH insulin
NPH stands for neutral protamine Hagedorn. NPH insulin is a long-acting insulin that is also intermediate-acting. It has been around for decades and is one of the most prescribed insulins for people with type 2 diabetes. The reason NPH is still prescribed today is because it is a balanced insulin that is suitable for a wide variety of patients. The issue with NPH is that it is not the most accurate insulin available and the dosage must be carefully adjusted. NPH insulin is generally not recommended for people with type 1 diabetes. It is more suitable for people in the early stages of type 2 diabetes.
Intermediate-acting insulin
Intermediate-acting insulin is a long-term insulin. It works in the body for up to 24 hours after being administered. While it is often prescribed as part of a diabetic treatment, it is also available as a stand-alone treatment. The main advantage of intermediate-acting insulin is that it covers a large part of the day. This means that corrections and adjustments are not as frequent. The disadvantage is that it is not as exact or consistent as short- or long-acting insulin. Intermediate-acting insulin is usually given once a day and can therefore be very helpful for people who have to take insulin but have a very busy schedule. It is often prescribed to people with type 2 diabetes.
Mixing insulins
Many people with diabetes take more than one form of insulin every day. It might be two different preparations of short-acting insulin, or a rapid-acting and intermediate-acting insulin, or something else entirely. This is referred to as mixing insulins. Mixing insulins may be the best option for some people, but it is not advisable for others. It is important to consider the advantages and disadvantages before making a decision. The main advantage of mixing insulins is that it covers a larger part of the day. The main disadvantage is that it is more challenging to adjust the dosages. There are many different types of insulin available, but the important thing is that you find the one that works best for you. Finding a good doctor is the first step to finding the right insulin for you
