What types of insulin are there?

There are many types of insulin. Each type of insulin works in your body for a different amount of time.

Some types work fast and are taken with meals. These are called rapid acting insulin and regular (short-acting) insulin. 

Other types of insulin last for 12 hours or longer. These are taken at set time(s) each day and do not have to be taken with food. These are called medium-acting and long-acting insulins.

Insulin mixtures have 2 types of insulin in them. They have one type that works fast and one type that lasts for 12 hours or longer. They are often taken before breakfast and dinner. Follow your healthcare team’s plan for taking this medicine.

See the image below to find out what type of insulin you are taking and when you should take it.