Main content Insulin for Gestational Diabetes

    Insulin for Gestational Diabetes



    Examples

    Rapid-acting

    Brand NameGeneric NameChemical Name
    NovoLog insulin aspart
    Humalog insulin lispro

    Short-acting

    Brand NameGeneric NameChemical Name
    Humulin R, Humulin R U-500, Novolin R insulin regular

    Intermediate-acting

    Brand NameGeneric NameChemical Name
    Humulin N, Novolin N insulin NPH

    Mixtures

    Brand NameGeneric NameChemical Name
    Humalog Mix 50/50 50% lispro protamine and 50% lispro
    Humulin 50/50 50% NPH and 50% regular
    NovoLog Mix 70/30 70% aspart protamine and 30% aspart
    Humulin 70/30, Novolin 70/30 70% NPH and 30% regular
    Humalog Mix 75/25 75% lispro protamine and 25% lispro

    Insulin normally is made by the pancreas, a gland behind the stomach. The medicine form of insulin helps the body use glucose. Insulin cannot be taken as a pill, because stomach acid destroys insulin before it can enter the blood.

    Reference Insulin Opens New Window is categorized according to how fast it starts to work and how long it continues to work. The types of insulin available include rapid-, short-, intermediate-, and long-acting insulin. See Reference types of insulin for more information. Insulin strength is usually U-100, but U-500 is also available, which is five times more concentrated than U-100. If you are very Reference resistant to insulin, U-500 allows you to inject fewer units but get more of the medicine.

    Packaging

    Insulin is packaged in small glass bottles that are sealed with rubber lids. One bottle of U-100 insulin holds 1,000 units, which is many doses of insulin. It is also packaged in small cartridges used in pen-shaped devices (Reference insulin pens Opens New Window) attached to disposable needles. Reference Insulin bottles and cartridges are labeled with important information you should read, such as the expiration date.

    How insulin is taken

    Insulin usually is given as a shot under the skin. It can also be given through an Reference insulin pump Opens New Window or a jet injector, a device that sprays the medicine into the skin. Some insulins can be given in a vein, but this is only done in a hospital.




    By: Reference Healthwise Staff Last Revised: May 14, 2012
    Medical Review: Reference Sarah Marshall, MD - Family Medicine
    Reference Alan C. Dalkin, MD - Endocrinology


    This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Reference Terms of Use. Reference How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.


    Topic Contents