Managing diabetes can be a daunting task, but having the right medication can make all the difference. Long-acting insulin is a type of insulin that is designed to provide a steady, controlled release of insulin over an extended period, typically 24 hours or more. This type of insulin is often used at bedtime or in the morning to keep blood sugar levels stable throughout the day.
There are several different types of long-acting insulin available, each with its own unique characteristics and benefits. Some of the most commonly used long-acting insulin names include:
Now that we've covered the basics of long-acting insulin, let's delve deeper into each type and explore their specific features and benefits.
Long Acting Insulin Names
Long-acting insulin provides steady, controlled insulin release.
- Basal, background, or bedtime insulin
- Slow-acting, ultralong-acting
- Glargine (Lantus, Toujeo)
- Detemir (Levemir)
- Degludec (Tresiba)
- Insulin glargine U300 (Gla-300)
- Combination insulins
- Tailor to individual needs
- Discuss with healthcare provider
Your healthcare provider can help you choose the best long-acting insulin for your individual needs.
Basal, background, or bedtime insulin
Basal, background, or bedtime insulin is a type of long-acting insulin that is taken once or twice a day to provide a steady, continuous supply of insulin over a 24-hour period. It is designed to cover your basal insulin needs, which is the amount of insulin your body needs to function properly even when you are not eating.
Basal insulin helps to keep your blood sugar levels stable between meals and overnight. It is typically taken at bedtime or in the morning, and it can be injected either subcutaneously (under the skin) or intravenously (into a vein). The specific type of basal insulin and the dosage that you need will depend on your individual needs and preferences.
Some of the most commonly used basal insulin names include:
- Glargine (Lantus, Toujeo)
- Detemir (Levemir)
- Degludec (Tresiba)
- Insulin glargine U300 (Gla-300)
Your healthcare provider can help you choose the best basal insulin for you and determine the appropriate dosage.
Basal insulin is an important part of diabetes management for people with type 1 and type 2 diabetes. By providing a steady supply of insulin, basal insulin can help to prevent blood sugar levels from getting too high or too low.
Slow-acting, ultralong-acting
Slow-acting and ultralong-acting insulins are types of basal insulin that provide a steady, continuous supply of insulin over an extended period of time, typically 24 hours or more.
- Slower onset and longer duration: Compared to rapid-acting insulin, slow-acting and ultralong-acting insulins take longer to start working, but their effects last much longer.
- Fewer injections: Because slow-acting and ultralong-acting insulins last for so long, they can be taken once or twice a day, which can be more convenient than taking multiple injections of rapid-acting insulin throughout the day.
- Stable blood sugar levels: Slow-acting and ultralong-acting insulins help to keep blood sugar levels stable between meals and overnight by providing a steady supply of insulin.
- May be used in combination with other insulins: Slow-acting and ultralong-acting insulins are often used in combination with rapid-acting insulin to provide both basal and mealtime coverage.
Some of the most commonly used slow-acting and ultralong-acting insulin names include:
- Glargine (Lantus, Toujeo)
- Detemir (Levemir)
- Degludec (Tresiba)
- Insulin glargine U300 (Gla-300)
Your healthcare provider can help you choose the best slow-acting or ultralong-acting insulin for you and determine the appropriate dosage.
Glargine (Lantus, Toujeo)
Glargine is a type of long-acting insulin that is sold under the brand names Lantus and Toujeo. It is a clear, man-made insulin that is similar to the insulin that your body naturally produces.
Glargine is used to treat people with type 1 and type 2 diabetes. It is typically taken once a day, at bedtime, to help control blood sugar levels throughout the day and night. Glargine can also be used in combination with other types of insulin, such as rapid-acting insulin, to provide more complete coverage of blood sugar levels.
Glargine works by slowly releasing insulin into your bloodstream over a period of 24 hours. This helps to keep your blood sugar levels stable between meals and overnight. Glargine is a relatively slow-acting insulin, so it is important to take it at the same time each day to ensure that it is working properly.
Glargine is generally well-tolerated, but some people may experience side effects, such as:
- Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia)
- Weight gain
- Swelling in your hands and feet
- Skin reactions at the injection site
If you experience any side effects from glargine, talk to your healthcare provider. They may be able to adjust your dosage or recommend other ways to manage your side effects.
Glargine is an effective and safe medication for managing blood sugar levels in people with diabetes. It is important to take glargine exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider and to monitor your blood sugar levels regularly to ensure that they are under control.
Detemir (Levemir)
Detemir is a type of long-acting insulin that is sold under the brand name Levemir. It is a clear, man-made insulin that is similar to the insulin that your body naturally produces.
Detemir is used to treat people with type 1 and type 2 diabetes. It is typically taken once or twice a day, depending on your individual needs, to help control blood sugar levels throughout the day and night. Detemir can also be used in combination with other types of insulin, such as rapid-acting insulin, to provide more complete coverage of blood sugar levels.
Detemir works by slowly releasing insulin into your bloodstream over a period of 24 hours. This helps to keep your blood sugar levels stable between meals and overnight. Detemir is a relatively slow-acting insulin, so it is important to take it at the same time each day to ensure that it is working properly.
Detemir is generally well-tolerated, but some people may experience side effects, such as:
- Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia)
- Weight gain
- Swelling in your hands and feet
- Skin reactions at the injection site
If you experience any side effects from detemir, talk to your healthcare provider. They may be able to adjust your dosage or recommend other ways to manage your side effects.
Detemir is an effective and safe medication for managing blood sugar levels in people with diabetes. It is important to take detemir exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider and to monitor your blood sugar levels regularly to ensure that they are under control.
Degludec (Tresiba)
Degludec is a type of long-acting insulin that is sold under the brand name Tresiba. It is a clear, man-made insulin that is similar to the insulin that your body naturally produces.
Degludec is used to treat people with type 1 and type 2 diabetes. It is typically taken once a day, at bedtime, to help control blood sugar levels throughout the day and night. Degludec can also be used in combination with other types of insulin, such as rapid-acting insulin, to provide more complete coverage of blood sugar levels.
Degludec works by slowly releasing insulin into your bloodstream over a period of up to 42 hours. This helps to keep your blood sugar levels stable between meals and overnight. Degludec is a relatively slow-acting insulin, so it is important to take it at the same time each day to ensure that it is working properly.
Degludec is generally well-tolerated, but some people may experience side effects, such as:
- Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia)
- Weight gain
- Swelling in your hands and feet
- Skin reactions at the injection site
If you experience any side effects from degludec, talk to your healthcare provider. They may be able to adjust your dosage or recommend other ways to manage your side effects.
Degludec is an effective and safe medication for managing blood sugar levels in people with diabetes. It is important to take degludec exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider and to monitor your blood sugar levels regularly to ensure that they are under control.
Insulin glargine U300 (Gla-300)
Insulin glargine U300, also known as Gla-300, is a type of long-acting insulin that is sold under the brand name Toujeo Max. It is a concentrated, clear, man-made insulin that is similar to the insulin that your body naturally produces.
Gla-300 is used to treat people with type 1 and type 2 diabetes. It is typically taken once a day, at bedtime, to help control blood sugar levels throughout the day and night. Gla-300 can also be used in combination with other types of insulin, such as rapid-acting insulin, to provide more complete coverage of blood sugar levels.
Gla-300 works by slowly releasing insulin into your bloodstream over a period of up to 36 hours. This helps to keep your blood sugar levels stable between meals and overnight. Gla-300 is a relatively slow-acting insulin, so it is important to take it at the same time each day to ensure that it is working properly.
Gla-300 is generally well-tolerated, but some people may experience side effects, such as:
- Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia)
- Weight gain
- Swelling in your hands and feet
- Skin reactions at the injection site
If you experience any side effects from Gla-300, talk to your healthcare provider. They may be able to adjust your dosage or recommend other ways to manage your side effects.
Gla-300 is an effective and safe medication for managing blood sugar levels in people with diabetes. It is important to take Gla-300 exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider and to monitor your blood sugar levels regularly to ensure that they are under control.
Combination insulins
Combination insulins are a type of insulin that combines two or more types of insulin into one injection. This can be convenient for people who need to take multiple types of insulin each day.
- Premixed combinations: Premixed combinations contain a fixed ratio of two different types of insulin, such as a rapid-acting insulin and a long-acting insulin. This type of combination insulin is typically taken twice a day, in the morning and in the evening.
- Adjustable combinations: Adjustable combinations allow you to mix different types of insulin in the same syringe, giving you more flexibility in your dosing. This type of combination insulin is typically used for people who need to fine-tune their insulin doses to achieve better blood sugar control.
- Basal-bolus combinations: Basal-bolus combinations involve taking a long-acting insulin once or twice a day to provide basal coverage, and a rapid-acting insulin at mealtimes to cover mealtime spikes in blood sugar levels.
- Ultra-long-acting combinations: Ultra-long-acting combinations combine an ultra-long-acting insulin with a rapid-acting insulin. This type of combination insulin can provide basal coverage for up to 48 hours, which can be convenient for people who want to reduce the number of injections they take each day.
Combination insulins can be an effective and convenient way to manage blood sugar levels in people with diabetes. Your healthcare provider can help you choose the right combination insulin for you and determine the appropriate dosage.
Tailor to individual needs
The type and dose of long-acting insulin that is right for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. Your healthcare provider will consider several factors when determining the best long-acting insulin for you, including:
- Age: Children and older adults may need different types or doses of insulin than adults.
- Weight: People who are overweight or obese may need higher doses of insulin.
- Activity level: People who are physically active may need to adjust their insulin doses to prevent low blood sugar.
- Diet: People who eat a high-carbohydrate diet may need to take more insulin than people who eat a low-carbohydrate diet.
- Other medical conditions: People with kidney disease or liver disease may need to adjust their insulin doses.
- Pregnancy: Insulin needs can change during pregnancy, so it is important to work closely with your healthcare provider to manage your blood sugar levels.
Your healthcare provider will also monitor your blood sugar levels regularly to ensure that your insulin is working properly and that your blood sugar is under control. They may adjust your insulin dose or type of insulin as needed.
Discuss with healthcare provider
It is important to talk to your healthcare provider about all of your treatment options before starting long-acting insulin. They can help you choose the right type and dose of insulin for you, and they can also provide you with instructions on how to inject insulin properly.
- Review your medical history: Your healthcare provider will ask you about your medical history, including any other medical conditions you have, any medications you are taking, and any allergies you have.
- Perform a physical exam: Your healthcare provider will perform a physical exam to check your weight, height, and blood pressure. They may also order blood tests to check your blood sugar levels and other important markers.
- Discuss your lifestyle: Your healthcare provider will ask you about your lifestyle, including your diet, activity level, and sleep habits. This information can help them determine the best type and dose of insulin for you.
- Teach you how to inject insulin: If you are new to insulin therapy, your healthcare provider will teach you how to inject insulin properly. They will also provide you with instructions on how to store and dispose of insulin needles and syringes.
Be sure to ask your healthcare provider any questions you have about long-acting insulin or diabetes management. They are there to help you stay healthy and manage your diabetes effectively.
FAQ
Here are some frequently asked questions about long-acting insulin names:
Question 1: What are some common long-acting insulin names?
Answer 1: Some common long-acting insulin names include Glargine (Lantus, Toujeo), Detemir (Levemir), Degludec (Tresiba), and Insulin glargine U300 (Gla-300).
Question 2: How do long-acting insulins work?
Answer 2: Long-acting insulins work by slowly releasing insulin into your bloodstream over a period of many hours, typically 24 hours or more. This helps to keep your blood sugar levels stable between meals and overnight.
Question 3: What is the difference between basal, background, and bedtime insulin?
Answer 3: Basal, background, and bedtime insulin are all terms used to describe long-acting insulin that is taken once or twice a day to provide a steady supply of insulin over a 24-hour period.
Question 4: How do I know which long-acting insulin is right for me?
Answer 4: The type and dose of long-acting insulin that is right for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. Your healthcare provider can help you choose the best long-acting insulin for you.
Question 5: How do I inject long-acting insulin?
Answer 5: Long-acting insulin is typically injected subcutaneously, which means just under the skin. Your healthcare provider will teach you how to inject insulin properly.
Question 6: What are some side effects of long-acting insulin?
Answer 6: Some common side effects of long-acting insulin include low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), weight gain, swelling in your hands and feet, and skin reactions at the injection site.
Question 7: How can I manage my blood sugar levels while taking long-acting insulin?
Answer 7: You can manage your blood sugar levels while taking long-acting insulin by following your healthcare provider's instructions, monitoring your blood sugar levels regularly, eating a healthy diet, getting regular exercise, and taking your insulin as prescribed.
Closing Paragraph for FAQ: If you have any other questions about long-acting insulin or diabetes management, be sure to talk to your healthcare provider.
Now that you know more about long-acting insulin names, here are some tips for managing your diabetes effectively:
Tips
Here are some tips for managing your diabetes effectively while taking long-acting insulin:
Tip 1: Follow your healthcare provider's instructions carefully.
This includes taking your insulin as prescribed, monitoring your blood sugar levels regularly, and following a healthy diet and exercise plan.
Tip 2: Learn how to recognize and treat low blood sugar (hypoglycemia).
Symptoms of low blood sugar include sweating, shaking, hunger, and dizziness. If you experience any of these symptoms, eat or drink something sugary right away.
Tip 3: Carry a glucagon emergency kit with you at all times.
Glucagon is a hormone that can raise your blood sugar levels quickly in case of a severe hypoglycemic event.
Tip 4: Educate yourself about diabetes and its management.
The more you know about diabetes, the better equipped you will be to manage your condition and prevent complications.
Tip 5: Join a diabetes support group.
Support groups can provide you with emotional support and encouragement from others who are living with diabetes.
Closing Paragraph for Tips: By following these tips, you can help to manage your diabetes effectively and live a healthy and fulfilling life.
Remember, diabetes is a serious condition, but it can be managed with proper treatment and lifestyle changes. Talk to your healthcare provider about the best way to manage your diabetes.
Conclusion
Long-acting insulin is a type of insulin that is used to control blood sugar levels in people with diabetes. It works by slowly releasing insulin into the bloodstream over a period of many hours, typically 24 hours or more. This helps to keep blood sugar levels stable between meals and overnight.
There are several different types of long-acting insulin available, each with its own unique characteristics and benefits. Your healthcare provider can help you choose the best long-acting insulin for you and determine the appropriate dosage.
It is important to take long-acting insulin exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. You should also monitor your blood sugar levels regularly to ensure that they are under control.
By following your healthcare provider's instructions and managing your diabetes effectively, you can help to prevent serious complications and live a healthy and fulfilling life.
Closing Message: If you have any questions or concerns about long-acting insulin or diabetes management, be sure to talk to your healthcare provider.