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Types of Insulin & Doses

Fighting a battle with diabetes entails strict observance of insulin intake. Once a patient is diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes, administer insulin to themselves often becomes a way of life. Proper knowledge of insulin types and correct dosage is vital in order to ensure the effectivity of the medication, as recommended by the physician based on the patient's weight and age.

  1. Insulin Variations

    • The different types of insulin correspond to the speed in which the effects can be felt. Daily intake of insulin is necessary for a diabetic person as it controls the amount of glucose in the body. As diabetes manifests differently from one patient to another, the right type of insulin according to age and weight is needed to help fight the disease. As always, it is best to heed your doctor's advice when it comes to dispensing any form of medication.

    Types Taken Before Meals

    • Taken before a meal, rapid-acting insulin works as fast as 15 minutes to help process the carbohydrates in the food. Regular or short-acting insulin, on the other hand, is taken half an hour before eating and its effect lasts up to an hour. Both types mimic the natural secretion of insulin by the body during meals.

    Intermediate

    • Intermediate-acting insulin shots are needed to control insulin in the bloodstream. This type lasts for about 10 to 16 hours and is usually taken twice a day. The effects begin to work within two to four hours after injection, and then reach its peak in four to10 hours.

    Long-Acting

    • Functioning the same way as the intermediate type, long-acting insulin can last between 20 and 24 hours. Due to its prolonged effect, it is only injected once a day commonly during bedtimes or upon waking. It begins working in the body after six to 10 hours of administration.

    Pre-Mixed

    • Some patients can take pre-mixed medications that combine two types of those mentioned above. This ensures regular supply of insulin in the body to cover both secretions in the bloodstream and in processing carbohydrates during mealtimes.

    Insulin Dosages

    • Diabetes Type 1 medication is sold in vials containing anywhere from 1,000 to 5,000 units of insulin per bottle. The regular amount of insulin needed by a patient is U-100 concentration. Dosage is actually calculated based on factors such as weight, age, diet, health condition and treatment goal. The amount can also change depending on the body's response to insulin. An ideal administration divides two-thirds of the daily dose in the morning and one-third taken in the evening.

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