•Single dose of rapid-acting insulin

•Primarily for postprandial BG control

•Offsets prandial carbohydrates

•“Corrects” hyperglycemia

•Adjusted downward for physical activity

Formulations

The traditional form or bolus insulin is “Regular” insulin. Its onset, peak and duration of action are generally too slow/too long to match the rapid glucose rise that occurs after most meals. 
When using Regular insulin for mealtime bolus purposes, the insulin may need to be administered 30-60 minutes prior to onset of the meal.

Options

Rapid-acting insulins are referred to as “analogs” – they are nearly identical to regular insulin, but with a slight molecular alteration that makes the insulin absorb and work much faster. Their onset, peak and duration are conducive to matching the glycemic rise that occurs after most meals.

 

Only rapid analogs work when needed – right after eating!