Types of Insulin Treatments

Several types of insulin injections are used to treat diabetes to keep blood sugar in its ideal range. The differences between each insulin treatment are determined by its duration, how fast it absorbs into the bloodstream and the strength of each injection. According to the Mayo Clinic, many diabetics require multiple insulin treatments to keep their blood sugar in its ideal range.

Types

Types of insulin treatments include rapid-acting injections, short-acting injections, intermediate-acting injections and long-acting injections. Rapid-acting injections boost blood sugar levels within 30 minutes, lasting from 2 to 5 hours. It needs to be injected several times a day to maintain these levels. Short-acting injections last slightly longer, raising blood sugar levels within an hour and lasting for up to 8 hours.

Intermediate-acting injections raise blood sugar levels slower but last longer, affecting blood sugar levels within 3 to 6 hours. It keeps blood sugar levels at the same level for 12 to 18 hours, however. Long-acting injections last the longest, lasting up to 1 day. It takes 1 to 10 hours to affect blood sugar levels.

Method

Insulin treatments are given through injections, which are inserted into the fatty layer of skin. Common types of injections include disposable insulin pens and syringes with cartridges, which can be used multiple times. In some cases diabetics cannot use syringes and must have continual insulin support. A pump, which feeds insulin to the skin through a needle connected to the skin, is used if a diabetic cannot maintain healthy blood sugar levels through injections alone.

Time Frame

Insulin treatments are given multiple times a day, depending on the type of treatment used. The most common type of insulin treatment, two doses per day, is given in the morning and evening. Intermediate and short term injections are used to boost blood sugar levels while providing longer, continual support throughout the day. Multiple uses of insulin, common among teenagers and children, involves shooting short term injections several times a day before eating. It is a suitable option for those who do not know how their body reacts to longer treatments or want more control. A physician will decide the appropriate frequency for giving insulin treatments, depending on a person's age, current health, lifestyle and dietary habits.

Geography

According to Net Doctor, where you apply the injection depends on the type of treatment used. For those using short term injections, injections are given through the abdomen, where it can easily access the stomach. Intermediate and long term injections are given through the upper thighs.

Benefits

All insulin treatments normalize blood sugar levels, preventing diabetic symptoms such as increased thirst, fatigue, irritability, blurred vision and increased urination. According to the Canadian Diabetes Association, it also lowers the risk of diabetic complications, including blindness, heart disease and erectile dysfunction.