There are various types of insulin used to manage diabetes, depending on your specific health needs. The main categories include short-acting, rapid-acting, intermediate-acting, long-acting, and NPH insulin.
Properly understanding and utilizing these different insulin types is essential for effective diabetes management. Let’s explore these five main types and their roles in regulating blood sugar levels.
The 5 Types of Insulin
- Short-acting insulin
Short-acting insulin provides prompt control over blood sugar levels. It’s often administered with meals to counteract the rise in blood sugar. However, it has a short duration, requiring it to be taken with each meal. Short-acting insulin is beneficial for foods high in carbohydrates or fat. Examples include Humalog, NovoLog, and Apidra.
- Rapid-acting insulin
Rapid-acting insulin is designed for times of increased blood sugar and is typically taken with carbohydrate-rich meals and during physical activities. Unlike short-acting insulin, it is not intended for use throughout the day. Examples include Humulin R, Novolin R, and Apidra.
- Intermediate-acting insulin
Intermediate-acting insulin manages blood sugar levels between meals and is effective for those with [type 2 diabetes](https://prohealthsupporter.com/type-2-diabetes-symptoms/), who may need long-term blood sugar reduction. It can be used in combination with rapid-acting insulin for optimal blood sugar control during meals. Examples include NPH, [Humulin](https://prohealthsupporter.com/shop/insulin-humulin-r-vial-100u-ml/) N, and [Novolin](https://prohealthsupporter.com/shop/insulin-novolin-ge-nph-vial/) N.
- Long-acting insulin
Long-acting insulin is typically taken once daily to manage blood sugar levels throughout the day. It helps maintain stable blood sugar levels, preventing significant drops. Choose a consistent time each day to administer this type of insulin. Examples include [Lantus](https://prohealthsupporter.com/shop/insulin-lantus-solostar-100u-ml-3ml/), [Apidra](https://prohealthsupporter.com/shop/insulin-apidra-vial-100u-ml/), and [Levemir](https://prohealthsupporter.com/shop/insulin-levemir-penfill-100u-ml-3ml/).
- NPH Insulin
Neutral Protamine Hagedorn (NPH) insulin combines short- and intermediate-acting properties and is administered on a regular schedule. It is ideal for those transitioning from short- or intermediate-acting insulin to long-acting insulin or those initiating diabetes management. Examples include Humulin NPH and Novolin NPH.
Types of Mixed Insulin
Mixed insulin is pre-mixed with a combination of rapid- or short-acting and intermediate-acting insulins. Here are some available options:
- Rapid-acting and intermediate-acting insulin
- [NovoMix 30](https://prohealthsupporter.com/shop/insulin-novomix-30-penfill-3ml/): 30% rapid, 70% intermediate Protaphane
- [Humalog Mix 25](https://prohealthsupporter.com/shop/insulin-humalog-mix-25-kwikpen-3ml/): 25% rapid, 75% intermediate Humulin NPH
- [Humalog Mix 50](https://prohealthsupporter.com/shop/insulin-humalog-mix-50-cartridge-3ml/): 50% rapid, 50% intermediate Humulin NPH
- Rapid-acting and long-acting insulin
- Ryzodeg 70:30: 70% long-acting Degludec, 30% rapid Aspart
- Short-acting and intermediate-acting insulin
- Mixtard 30/70: 30% short, 70% intermediate Protaphane
- Mixtard 50/50: 50% short, 50% intermediate Protaphane
- Humulin 30/70: 30% short, 70% intermediate Humulin NPH