What it means
The group of insulins between rapid-acting and intermediate-acting. Human regular insulinREG-yuh-ler IN-suh-linA short-acting human insulin that is clear and can be given under the skin or into a vein.Full entry is the standard one. It is given 30 to 60 minutes before a meal, peaks in about 2 to 3 hours and lasts up to about 6 to 8 hours. It is the only kind given IV.
For the nurse
Time the dose so the meal arrives within 30 minutes, check the blood glucose first, and watch for hypoglycemiahy-poh-gly-SEE-mee-uhA blood glucose level below normal, under 70 mg/dL.hypo- belowglyc/o sugar, glucose-emia in the bloodFull entry around the peak.
At a glance
| Drug class | short-acting insulin (antidiabetic hormone) |
|---|---|
| Brand names | Humulin R, Novolin R |
| Also written | short acting insulin, short-acting insulins |
Related terms
insulin
A hormone made by the pancreas that lets the body's cells take in glucose, also made as a medicine.
hypoglycemia
A blood glucose level below normal, under 70 mg/dL.
regular insulin
A short-acting human insulin that is clear and can be given under the skin or into a vein.
rapid-acting insulin
Insulin that starts to work within about 15 minutes and is timed with meals.