Commercially Available Insulin in US

Insulin as a Medical Treatment

Insulin is a hormone that is essential for controlling blood sugar (glucose) levels in the body. It is primarily produced by the pancreas and aids in the transport of glucose from the bloodstream into cells for use as energy. Diabetes develops when the body does not create enough insulin or does not use the insulin properly or it does make it adequately. Diabetes is classified into two types:
1. Type 1 diabetes: In this autoimmune illness, the body’s immune system mistakenly assaults and destroys the pancreas’ insulin-producing beta cells. People with Type 1 diabetes require insulin therapy for the rest of their lives to control their blood sugar levels. Insulin is given via injections or insulin pumps, and the dosage must be carefully regulated based on factors such as nutrition, physical activity, and blood sugar monitoring.
2. Type 2 diabetes: This type of diabetes is distinguished by insulin resistance, which occurs when the cells of the body fail to respond properly to insulin. People with type 2 diabetes may initially be able to manage their illness with lifestyle modifications such as diet and exercise. However, as the condition advances, some people may require insulin therapy in addition to other medications to keep their blood sugar levels under control.
Insulin comes in a variety of strengths and forms, including rapid-acting, short-acting, intermediate-acting, and long-acting formulations. The type and regimen of insulin used are determined by an individual’s particular needs and the advice of their healthcare professional.

Kinds of Insulin

Among the most frequent insulin kinds are:
1. Rapid-Acting Insulin: This type of insulin begins to function in 15 minutes and reaches its peak in 1 to 2 hours. It is often used just before or after meals to decrease blood sugar levels after meals.
2. Regular (short-acting) insulin: It takes about 30 minutes for this insulin to start acting and peaks in 2 to 3 hours. It is frequently used before meals to help regulate blood sugar levels.
3. Intermediate-Acting Insulin: This type of insulin takes longer to start acting and has a longer duration of action (12 to 18 hours). To provide basal (background) insulin coverage, it is commonly administered once or twice a day.
4. Long-Acting Insulin: Long-acting insulin releases insulin slowly and steadily over an extended period of time (up to 24 hours). It is typically used once a day to provide basal insulin coverage.

Insulin classifications

There are various kinds of insulin available to manage diabetes, and they are classified based on their commencement of action, peak activity, and duration of effect. The following are several kinds of insulin:
1. Insulin with a Short Acting Time:

• Insulin Lispro, also known as Humalog, begins acting 15 minutes after injection, peaks in around 1-2 hours, and lasts for 3–4 hours.
• Insulin Aspart: It, too, is marketed as NovoLog and has a rapid onset, often starting to function within 15 minutes, peaking at 1-3 hours, and lasting for 3-5 hours.
• Insulin Glulisine: Also known as Apidra, this insulin begins functioning quickly, usually within 10-15 minutes, peaks in around 1-2 hours, and lasts 3–4 hours.

2. Regular (short-acting) Insulin: Regular Insulin (R). This form of insulin has a longer onset of action, usually starting to function within 30 minutes, peaking at 2-3 hours, and lasting 3-6 hours. It is commonly used before meals to manage blood sugar levels and is sold under a variety of brand names.
3. Insulin with Intermediate Action: NPH Insulin (Neutral Protamine Hagedorn). Also known as isophane insulin, this type begins to function in 1-2 hours, peaks in 4–12 hours, and can last up to 18 hours. It’s frequently used as a background insulin to offer coverage. Humulin N and Novolin N are two brand names.
4. Insulin with a Long Acting Time:

• Insulin Glargine: Sold under the brand names Lantus, Toujeo, and Basaglar, it provides a consistent release of insulin over a longer period of time (up to 24 hours). It has no discernible peak in activity, which aids in the maintenance of more stable blood sugar levels.
• Insulin Detemir: Also known as Levemir, it has a lengthy duration of action and less variability in blood sugar levels.

5. Insulin with an extremely long half-life (Insulin Degludec): Also known as Tresiba, this insulin has a far longer duration of action than ordinary long-acting insulin, lasting up to 42 hours. It offers very consistent basal insulin coverage.
6. Premixed Insulin: Some insulin formulations mix rapid-acting and intermediate-acting insulin in order to offer mealtime and basal coverage. Individuals who seek a more uncomplicated insulin regimen often utilize these items. Humalog Mix 75/25 and NovoLog Mix 70/30 are two examples.
7. Insulin inhaled: Afrezza is an insulin inhalant that is breathed rather than injected. It has a quick onset and is taken with food.
8. Biosimilars Insulin: Biosimilars are insulin products that are very similar to brand-name insulins that are already on the market. They provide a more cost-effective solution for diabetics.
Insulin is a necessary drug for diabetics since it helps them regulate their condition and avoid complications caused by high or low blood sugar levels. Proper insulin administration is critical, and healthcare experts collaborate with patients to develop the best insulin regimen for their unique needs and lifestyle. Furthermore, advances in insulin administration technologies, such as insulin pens and insulin pumps, have made it easier for diabetics to inject their insulin. An individual’s insulin type and regimen are determined by their personal needs, lifestyle, and the advice of their healthcare professional.
Insulin therapy is Critical for Diabetes Management for individuals with Type 1 diabetes, as their bodies do not produce insulin. Many people with Type 2 diabetes also require insulin when their bodies cannot use insulin effectively (insulin resistance) or when other medications no longer provide sufficient blood sugar control.