1. Various Insulins for Personalized Treatment
Just as everyone’s lifestyle and eating patterns are different, so are their blood sugar patterns. For effective blood sugar control, various types of insulin have been developed based on their time of action and are prescribed according to the patient’s condition. They can be broadly divided into bolus (mealtime) insulin and basal insulin.
2. Bolus (Mealtime) Insulin
This is the insulin injected just before a meal to control the sharp rise in blood sugar caused by eating.
– Rapid-acting: Takes effect within 10-15 minutes and lasts for 3-5 hours. Injected right before a meal.
– Short-acting (Regular): Takes effect in 30 minutes to an hour and lasts for 5-8 hours. Injected 30 minutes before a meal.
3. Basal Insulin
This insulin meets the body’s basic insulin needs throughout the day, regardless of meals, to keep fasting blood sugar levels stable.
– Intermediate-acting: Takes effect in 1-2 hours and lasts for 12-18 hours. Usually injected once or twice a day.
– Long-acting: Takes effect gradually and provides a steady level of insulin for 24 hours or more. Injected once a day to maintain the basal insulin level.
In addition, there are premixed insulins that combine rapid-acting and intermediate-acting types. A doctor will prescribe the most suitable type and dosage of insulin by comprehensively considering the patient’s blood sugar patterns, lifestyle, and other factors.
Summary: There are several types of insulin that differ in their onset and duration of action, and it is important to use the type that is most appropriate for each individual patient.
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