The new "super fast" insulins are a class of medications known as ultra-rapid-acting insulins, designed to work even more quickly than previous rapid-acting types. These innovative insulins offer a significantly faster onset of action, which can be highly beneficial for managing blood sugar spikes more effectively, particularly around meal times.
Understanding Ultra-Rapid-Acting Insulins
Ultra-rapid-acting insulins are engineered to be absorbed into the bloodstream much faster than conventional rapid-acting insulins. This quicker absorption means they begin lowering blood glucose levels almost immediately after injection, more closely mimicking the body's natural insulin response to food.
Key Ultra-Rapid-Acting Insulins
The most prominent examples of these advanced insulins currently available include:
| Insulin Type | Brand Name | Key Characteristic |
|---|---|---|
| Faster-acting insulin aspart | Fiasp | Approved in 2017, designed for faster absorption. |
| Insulin lispro-aabc | Lyumjev | Designed with added excipients for enhanced speed. |
These insulins represent an advancement in diabetes management, offering patients greater flexibility and improved control over post-meal blood sugar levels.
Benefits of Ultra-Rapid-Acting Insulins
The introduction of ultra-rapid-acting insulins provides several significant advantages for individuals managing diabetes:
- Faster Glucose Lowering: They begin acting almost immediately, helping to counteract post-meal blood sugar surges more efficiently than standard rapid-acting insulins.
- Increased Flexibility: Users may experience more flexibility in the timing of their injections relative to meals, potentially reducing the waiting period often required with traditional rapid-acting insulins. This can make meal planning and daily routines more adaptable.
- Improved Post-Meal Control: By more closely aligning the insulin's action with the rapid rise in blood glucose after eating, these insulins can lead to better overall post-meal blood sugar control.
- Reduced Hypoglycemia Risk (Potentially): While individual experiences vary, the faster action and quicker peak of these insulins might, in some cases, help reduce the risk of late post-meal hypoglycemia compared to slower rapid-acting insulins.
For more information on different types of insulin and their uses, you can refer to resources from reputable health organizations such as the American Diabetes Association.
