For more information, visit our Insulin Information section.

Insulin is a hormone produced by the beta cells in the pancreas and utilized by the body to enable glucose to enter cells for energy. With Type 1 diabetes, the beta cells are no longer active, so insulin injections replace the body’s natural production of insulin. With Type 2 diabetes, the body typically produces insulin, but insulin resistance means that the insulin produced is insufficient to maintain normal blood sugar levels. Often, a change in diet, increased exercise, and oral medications are used as the initial approach. When that is no longer effective, a person with Type 2 usually requires injected insulin.

Insulin types and action times
Insulin	Starts	Peaks	Ends	Low most likely at:
Hum/Nov	10-20 m	1.5-2.5 h	4-5 h	2-5 h
Regular	30-45 m	2-4 h	5-7 h	3-7 h
NPH	1-3 h	4-9 h	14-20 h	4-16 h
Lente	2-4 h	8-14 h	16-24 h	6-16 h
UL	2-4 h	8-14 h	18-24 h	8-18 h
Lantus*	1-2 h	6 hr	18-26 h	5-10 h
Levemir*	1-3 h	8-10	18-24 h	8-16 h
* Lantus and Levemir have little peak, so lows are less likely unless the dose is excessive.

Insulin storage tips:

Insulin will remain stable for 1 month at room temperature if stored at a temperature below 86 degrees and kept out of direct sunlight or heat.
Unopened bottles of insulin should be stored in a refrigerator; however, do not freeze the insulin.
Syringes may be pre-filled and stored in a refrigerator for up to 3 weeks. Before use, roll the syringes to mix the insulin.

Insulin injections

Insulin is most consistently and quickly absorbed through the abdomen, followed by the arms and legs. Insulin injections should be at a 90-degree angle subcutaneously (just under the skin). Pinching the skin, using a 45-degree injection angle, and/or a shorter needle may be necessary in children and lean adults.

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