What is the peak time for short-acting insulin?

Short-acting insulin is designed to control blood glucose levels in the short term after food intake. The peak action time for short-acting insulin occurs between 2 to 5 hours after administration. During this time, the insulin is most effective at lowering blood glucose levels, making it critical for managing postprandial (after meal) hyperglycemia.

Understanding the pharmacokinetics of short-acting insulin is essential for effective diabetes management. It allows healthcare providers and patients to tailor insulin doses to align with meal times, ensuring optimal glucose control. This characteristic of short-acting insulin helps in planning and timing insulin therapy around meals, providing a better strategy to manage blood sugar levels effectively after eating.