Things to know if you take insulin
- TIP 1Always be prepared to treat low blood sugar
- TIP 2Rotate sites and clean before you inject
- TIP 3You can get help affording insulin
Rapid-acting insulin is taken with meals, typically right before eating. It’s commonly used along with longer-acting insulin and usually starts working in 15 minutes. The effects of rapid-acting insulin last from 2–4 hours, though it typically peaks in your system at 1 hour.
Short-acting insulin is taken with meals, typically 30–60 minutes before eating. It takes effect after 30 minutes and lasts 3–6 hours, peaking around 2–3 hours.
Intermediate-acting insulin is taken once or twice a day. It covers your insulin needs for half a day or overnight. It’s commonly used with rapid- or short-acting insulin. Onset for intermediate-acting insulin is 2–4 hours, and it lasts up to 18 hours.
Long-acting insulin is taken once a day. It can be used with rapid- or short-acting insulin if needed. It takes effect in 2 hours and can last up to 24 hours.
Pre-mixed insulin is taken twice a day, commonly 10–30 minutes before breakfast and dinner. This type of insulin is a combination of intermediate- and short-acting insulin. It takes 5–60 minutes to take effect and lasts 10–16 hours.
More on Insulin Types
Managing insulin costs
Frequently Asked Questions
You can use an ice pack, ice cube, or freeze a spoon and place it on the injection site before injecting insulin. You may also ask for a numbing cream from your pharmacy.
To avoid injecting into muscle, gently pinch a 1- to 2-inch portion of skin. Insert the needle at a 90-degree angle. Push the plunger all the way down and wait for 10 seconds. With smaller needles, the pinching process may not be needed.
Blood vessels widen when you’re hot, so taking a hot bath or shower after an insulin injection isn’t a good idea. This can cause insulin to enter the bloodstream too quickly.
Insulin is absorbed more quickly and predictably in the abdomen, plus it’s easy to reach. You can also inject into the top and outer areas of your thigh, about 4 inches down from the top of your leg and 4 inches up from your knee. Another option is the fatty area on the back of your arm, between your shoulder and elbow.