Different types of insulin and their actions?

[susique333]

I STUPIDLY POSTED THIS IN THE WRONG THREAD YESTERDAY. here we go again:



Im super curious about ALL the different types of insulin on the market and their actions. When I was on insulin 10 yrs ago I was only aware of NPH and REG and that was it. Seems there has been quite a change in the whole area since then. Is there a sticky that names these insulins and their actions? Drawbacks? Positives? Thanks in advance!

[BlueSky]

Below are graphs showing the action profile for the different Eli Lily insulins. Humalog is the fast acting bolus insulin, Humulin R is Regular, Humulin N is NPH, Humulin L is Lente, Humulin U is Ultra Lente, and then there are the mixed insulins. They haven't got Lantus and Detemir in the image. The bottom image compares the basal insulins - Detemir (Levimer), Glargine (Lantus) and Isophane (NPH). The smaller the peak, the better.

Pros and cons need to be related to our insulin requirements. We need consistent basal action during the day (hopefully!), for which Lantus and Detemir are the most suitable. And we need insulin at mealtimes, for which the fast acting (Humalog in the image) is best. Regular works better for the low-carbers. The best insulins for you are the ones that stabilise your blood sugars and provide you with the flexibility in food choice/timing you require.

[Jan B]

I think this covers it!


Insulins