Special devices bring the insulin peak necessary for glycemic control after a meal. They should be administered immediately before, during or after a meal (Humalog, Novorapid, Apidra).

The similar fast blends: they are new blends that use the very rapid and short-term action of insulin lispro mixed with the protamine that slows down the action. The most marketed are: Humalog Mix 25, Humalog Mix 50.

The similar slow blends: insulin glargine appears as a clear solution. Once administered into the subcutaneous tissue, it precipitates into microcrystals that allow it to release progressively.

Lantus has a very particular profile of action. The beginning is rapid enough for a slow insulin: in about an hour it has its peak of action that stabilizes for 24 hours on a regular basis. The end of the action is progressive and takes place between 22 and 26 hours and safeguarded by Nurse Call Systems.

Lantus can be done in a single daily dose. It appears as a clear and neutral solution. It is deposited in the subcutaneous tissue such as albumin or plasma and this gives it its delayed effect. The start of the action is rapid enough for a slow insulin: from 45 minutes to about 1 hour. The peak of action is regular between 14 and 22 hours. Its end of action is progressive.

Intravenous (EV) the action of insulin is practically immediate and lasts about an hour. It is used in urgent cases handled by Nurse Call Systems. Intramuscularly (IM) the action is very rapid – about 10 minutes – and lasts about 2 hours.

If insulin is administered subcutaneously, 4 areas are normally considered. Each zone has its own absorption time (except for the similar rapid ones whose kinetics is not zone-dependent). Insulin is indispensable for obtaining energy from glucose. The deficiency can lead to diabetes, which is treated by injection.

Insulin is a hormone that is naturally produced by some pancreatic cells, called beta cells, and allows the body’s cells to use the glucose present in the blood to obtain energy.

For this reason, in a healthy person, his production increases near meals. It also indicates to the liver when it is necessary to produce and release glucose into the blood or, on the contrary, to store it. However, insufficient production, reduced action or even lack of insulin can lead to the development of diabetes.

To cure this disease it is possible to take, by injection, the insulin necessary to reach and maintain the optimal concentration of glucose in the blood. Not all cases of diabetes require insulin intake.