Which insulin, when given subcutaneously, will have a peak action within 2-4 hours?

Regular insulin is characterized by its peak action occurring within 2-4 hours after subcutaneous administration. This type of insulin is designed to act quickly, allowing for a timely response to increases in blood glucose levels, especially around meal times.

In the context of diabetes management, regular insulin’s peak action provides an opportunity for patients to effectively manage postprandial (after meal) blood glucose levels. The predictability of this action is crucial, allowing healthcare providers to plan doses relative to food intake.

Other types of insulin operate differently: long-acting insulin has a prolonged duration and generally does not have a significant peak, making it suitable for maintaining baseline glucose levels. NPH insulin has an intermediate action profile but typically reaches its peak around 4-12 hours after administration. Rapid-acting insulin, while it acts quickly, peaks within 1-2 hours and thus does not fall within the specified 2-4 hour time frame. Understanding these distinctions helps in tailoring insulin therapy to meet individual patient needs effectively.