Insulins are categorized first by length of action, then by origin and by suspension. The four durations are: [1]
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Rapid-acting or Fast-acting insulin begins to work shortly after injection, peaks in about 1 hour, and continues to work for 2 to 4 hours. |
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Regular or Short-acting insulin reaches the bloodstream 30 minutes to an hour after injection, peaks anywhere from 2 to 3 hours after injection, and is effective for approximately 6-8 hours. |
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Intermediate-acting insulin generally reaches the bloodstream about 1-2 hours after injection, and is effective for about 8 to 12 hours. |
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Long-acting insulin generally reaches the bloodstream about 2 to 4 hours after injection, peaks 4 to 8 hours later and is effective for about 12 to 18 hours. |
References[]
- ↑ Insulin Therapy. RxEd.org.
More Information[]

See action profiles of common insulins in humans here
The article Insulin has more details.
The following insulins have articles of their own:
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Conversion Chart U 40 Insulin/U 100 Syringes -
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Drawing insulin
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