July 4, 2008, Newsletter Issue #161: Types of Insulin

Tip of the Week

For Type I diabetes, insulin is required to help control blood sugars. There are 3 primary types of insulin:

* short acting
* intermediate acting
* long acting

1. Short acting insulin is called "regular" insulin. This insulin peaks within 30 minutes of administration and its effect last only a few hours. This insulin is good for controlling brittle or unpredictable blood sugars, and is usually given 3-4 times each day.

2. Intermediate-acting insulin is usually called "NPH." This insulin peaks within 2-4 hours, and lasts approximately 8 hours. This insulin is often given 2 times a day, in the morning and evening, to provide blood sugar stability throughout the day and night.

3. Long acting insulin usually refers to Lantus. This insulin is given once daily and provides blood sugar stability for 24- hours. It can be given in the morning or evening, but it is best to choose a time and stick with it, since overlapping the times can impact your blood sugars.

Insulin is an important part of your diabetes treatment, if you have Type I diabetes. The type of insulin that your physician prescribes will be based on your blood sugar readings, the stability of your blood sugars, and other factors which can impact your blood glucose, such as medications or infections.

As always, talk to your physician about the insulin that has been prescribed and the best way to manage your blood sugars.

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