Fast-acting insulin reduces blood glucose levels after meals, starting to work within 15 minutes of injection. Here are some benefits of using fast-acting insulin:
1. It is rapidly absorbed from your fat tissue into the bloodstream.
2. It is prescribed to regulate blood sugar levels during meals and snacks and to control elevated glucose in the bloodstream.
## **Duration of Fast-Acting Insulin**
Fast-acting insulin analogs, including insulin aspart, insulin lispro, and insulin glulisine, begin to act within 5 to 15 minutes. They reach their peak effect in 1 to 2 hours and have a duration of action ranging from 4 to 6 hours.
The onset and peak times of fast-acting insulin are consistent, while its duration depends on the dosage. A smaller dose might last around 4 hours, whereas a larger dose of about 25 or 30 units could last up to 5 or 6 hours.
On average, the duration of action for fast-acting insulin can be safely estimated at around 4 hours.
## **Insulin Brands**
Here are some well-known brands of fast-acting insulin:
– [**Humalog**](https://prohealthsupporter.com/shop/insulin-humalog-vial-100u-ml/) is prescribed to individuals with type 1 or type 2 diabetes to manage their blood sugar levels. This fast-acting insulin starts working almost immediately and has a shorter duration compared to regular human insulin.
– **Novolog** helps control blood sugar spikes and is effective for both children and adults. It is usually taken along with long-acting insulin.
– **Apidra** is used for managing high blood sugar in adults and children. When used mealtime, Apidra is typically administered 15 minutes before or within 20 minutes after a meal.
## **Possible Side Effects**
When using any brand of fast-acting insulin, you might experience some adverse effects shortly after injection:
– Rashes
– Shortness of breath
– Wheezing
– Dizziness
– Blurred vision
– Fast heartbeat
– Sweating
– Difficulty breathing or swallowing
– Weakness
– Muscle cramps
– Abnormal heartbeat
– Weight gain
– Swelling of the arms, hands, feet, ankles, or lower legs