What type of insulin are NPH and lente considered?

NPH (Neutral Protamine Hagedorn) and lente insulin are classified as intermediate-acting insulins. This classification is based on their pharmacokinetic profiles, which dictate how quickly they begin to lower blood glucose and how long their effects last.

Intermediate-acting insulins like NPH have a delayed onset of action, typically beginning to work within 1 to 3 hours after injection, and they usually reach their peak effect between 4 to 12 hours. Their duration of action can extend up to 18 hours or longer, providing a reasonably long coverage for blood glucose control throughout the day.

Understanding the action of these insulins is crucial for effective diabetes management, as they are commonly used to control blood glucose levels between meals and overnight. In contrast, short-acting and rapid-acting insulins work more quickly but for a shorter duration, while long-acting insulins provide a steady release over a prolonged period. Thus, recognizing NPH and lente as intermediate-acting insulins helps in properly planning insulin regimens for individuals with diabetes.