Rapid Acting Insulin Overview

Definition

• Rapid acting insulin is the fastest acting form of insulin.
• Used to rapidly reduce blood sugar levels.

Mechanism of Action

• Insulin binds to receptors on cells, initiating a chain reaction.
• This prompts glucose transporters to surface on cell membranes.
• Glucose enters the cell from the bloodstream, lowering blood glucose levels.

Natural vs. Injected Insulin

• Naturally made in the pancreas.
• People with diabetes may require additional insulin via injection.
• Classified as a medication when injected.

Types of Insulin

• Four types based on action speed: rapid acting, short acting, intermediate acting, long acting.
• Focus is on rapid acting insulin.

Rapid Acting Insulin Details

Characteristics

• Fastest insulin type for lowering blood glucose quickly.

Timing

• Onset: 15 minutes
• Peak: Around 1 hour
• Duration: 3 to 5 hours (varies by patient)

Importance of Timing

• At its peak, glucose levels are likely lowest.
• Peak time is crucial for monitoring potential hypoglycemia.

Drug Names

• Aspart (Brand: NovoLog) - Remember by associating with "asphalt."
• Glulisine (Brand: Apidra) - Remember by associating with "glue listing."
• Lispro (Brand: Humalog) - Remember by associating with "list Pro."

Administration with Meals

• Must be taken with meals to prevent post-meal blood sugar spikes.
• Synchronizes insulin peak with glucose spike after eating.
  • Eating raises blood glucose, which peaks around 1 hour after meal.
  • Insulin peaks should synchronize with meal glucose spikes to maintain normal blood levels.

Recap

• Rapid acting insulin is crucial for quick blood glucose control.
• Peaks around 1 hour post-administration.
• Includes aspart, glulisine, and lispro.
• Important to administer with meals for best results.

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