Learn about the different types of insulin used in diabetes management, including their onset times, durations, and formulations. This guide helps patients understand their options and tailor their treatment plans effectively.

Insulin is a crucial hormone responsible for maintaining blood glucose levels. Individuals with type 1 or type 2 diabetes often rely on insulin therapy to fulfill their hormonal requirements.

It can be administered through injections, IV lines, or sophisticated insulin pumps. The use of insulin pumps is increasingly common in diabetes management. Here, we highlight some of the most commonly used insulin types.

Classification of insulin

Insulin types differ based on how quickly they work and their duration of action. They are also sorted according to their origin and formulation.

Based on onset time

Rapid-acting: Effective within 15 minutes, peaks in 1-2 hours, and lasts 2-4 hours. Examples include Apidra and NovoLog.

Short-acting: Begins around 30 minutes after injection, peaks at 2-3 hours, lasting 3-6 hours. Examples include Novolin and Velosulin (used with pumps).

Intermediate-acting: Takes about 2 hours to start, peaks between 4-12 hours, with a duration of 16-24 hours. Example: NPH insulin.

Long-acting: Starts in 2-4 hours, has no distinct peak, and sustains effects for 14-24 hours. Examples: Lantus, Levemir, Tresiba.

Based on formulation

Animal-based insulin: Derived from animal sources.

Human insulin: Manufactured synthetically in laboratories.

Analogue insulin: Bioengineered and modified to alter onset and duration.

Both human and analogue insulins serve in the treatment of both type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Administration methods include injections via pens or syringes, intravenous delivery under medical supervision, and insulin pump therapy. The optimal treatment plan is customized per patient, considering insulin type, dosage, and delivery method.