Long-acting insulin

Definition

Long-acting insulin is a type of insulin designed to be released slowly and steadily to provide a constant level of insulin in the body for an extended period, typically 24 hours or more. It is used to manage blood glucose levels in individuals with diabetes by mimicking the natural basal insulin secretion of the pancreas.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Common long-acting insulins include insulin glargine (Lantus) and insulin detemir (Levemir).
2. Long-acting insulins are usually administered once daily via subcutaneous injection.
3. They have a relatively consistent absorption rate, resulting in minimal peaks and reducing the risk of hypoglycemia compared to shorter-acting insulins.
4. These insulins are often used in combination with rapid-acting or short-acting insulins to control blood sugar spikes during meals.
5. Patients should rotate injection sites within the same general area to reduce the risk of lipodystrophy.

Review Questions

• What are two common types of long-acting insulin?
• How does long-acting insulin differ from rapid-acting insulin in terms of onset and duration?
• Why is it important to rotate injection sites when administering long-acting insulin?

Related terms

Rapid-Acting Insulin: Insulin that starts working within minutes and is used to control blood sugar spikes during meals.

Short-Acting Insulin: Insulin that begins working within 30 minutes and has a duration of up to eight hours, often used before meals.

Basal-Bolus Therapy: A regimen combining long-acting (basal) and rapid or short-acting (bolus) insulins for comprehensive blood glucose control.