Which of the following is rapidly acting insulin: September 2007
**Core Concept**
The question tests the student's knowledge of the classification of insulin based on their onset and duration of action. Rapid-acting insulin starts working within 15 minutes of injection and peaks in 1 hour, making it suitable for mealtime dosing.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
Rapid-acting insulin analogs, such as insulin lispro (Humalog) and insulin aspart (NovoLog), are designed to have a faster onset and shorter duration of action compared to regular human insulin. This allows for more flexibility in dosing and improved glycemic control, especially in patients with diabetes who require insulin therapy. The rapid-acting insulin analogs work by quickly stimulating glucose uptake in the muscles and inhibiting glucose production in the liver, resulting in a rapid reduction in blood glucose levels.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** Regular human insulin is an intermediate-acting insulin, which has a slower onset and longer duration of action compared to rapid-acting insulin analogs. It is not suitable for mealtime dosing and is often used in basal insulin therapy.
**Option B:** NPH insulin is an intermediate-acting insulin that peaks in 4-12 hours and has a duration of action of 12-18 hours. It is not rapidly acting and is often used in basal insulin therapy.
**Option C:** Ultralente insulin is a long-acting insulin that peaks in 12-18 hours and has a duration of action of 18-24 hours. It is not rapidly acting and is often used in basal insulin therapy.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
When prescribing insulin, it is essential to match the type and timing of insulin therapy to the patient's lifestyle and needs. Rapid-acting insulin analogs are particularly useful in patients who require insulin therapy and have a variable or unpredictable meal schedule.
**Correct Answer: A. Insulin lispro (Humalog)**