What is insulin used for?

Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas that helps regulate the levels of glucose in the blood. Insulin deficiency or resistance can lead to diabetes, a chronic condition that affects millions of people worldwide.

Insulin therapy is a treatment for diabetes that involves administering insulin through injections, pens, or pumps. It can help control blood sugar levels and prevent complications from the disease. There are several types of insulin, including rapid-acting, short-acting, intermediate-acting, and long-acting.

Rapid-acting insulin starts to work within 15 minutes of injection and usually peaks within an hour. Short-acting insulin starts to work within 30 minutes and peaks in two to four hours. Intermediate-acting insulin takes between two and four hours to start working and can last up to 24 hours. Long-acting insulin takes several hours to start working and can last up to 36 hours.

Insulin therapy requires careful monitoring of blood sugar levels, diet, and exercise. It can also cause side effects such as low blood sugar, weight gain, and injection site reactions. Patients must work closely with their healthcare providers to adjust their insulin doses and manage their diabetes effectively.