What is the duration of intermediate acting insulin?

The duration of intermediate-acting insulin typically ranges from 16 to 24 hours. This formulation, such as NPH (Neutral Protamine Hagedorn), is designed to provide a more prolonged effect than short-acting insulins, which have a much shorter duration of action.

Intermediate-acting insulin allows for more consistent blood glucose control, particularly for those requiring coverage over an extended period, such as overnight or between meals. This extended duration makes it suitable for managing blood sugar levels throughout the day and night when combined with rapid-acting insulins for mealtime coverage. Understanding this pharmacokinetic property is essential for effective diabetes management and insulin regimen planning.