Which type of insulin is classified as rapid-acting?

Rapid-acting insulin is designed to begin lowering blood glucose levels quickly after injection, making it optimal for controlling postprandial blood sugar spikes. Lispro, which is the correct answer, is a prime example of rapid-acting insulin. It typically starts to work within about 15 minutes, peaks in 30 to 90 minutes, and has a duration of action lasting around 3 to 5 hours. This characteristic allows individuals with diabetes to administer it shortly before or after meals.

In contrast, Lantus is a long-acting insulin, providing a steady release of insulin over a 24-hour period to help maintain baseline blood glucose levels. Regular insulin is classified as short-acting and usually takes about 30 minutes to start working, making it less rapid than Lispro. NPH is an intermediate-acting insulin, which has a longer onset and duration compared to rapid-acting types. Understanding these differences in onset, peak, and duration is crucial for effective insulin management in diabetes care.