Last updated on April 2, 2025 by

Insulin for Type 1 Diabetes

Insulin for type 1 diabetes is essential because the body cannot produce this hormone naturally. Without insulin, blood sugar levels rise uncontrollably, leading to severe health complications. People with type 1 diabetes must rely on external insulin to maintain stable glucose levels.

Ways to Take Insulin

There are different ways to take insulin for type 1 diabetes, including:

  • Insulin pens – These provide an easy and precise way to inject insulin.
  • Insulin pumps – Worn on the body, these devices deliver insulin continuously throughout the day and night.

Healthcare professionals will guide patients on the proper use of insulin pens or pumps for effective diabetes management.

Types of Insulin for Type 1 Diabetes

People with type 1 diabetes typically require a combination of two types of insulin:

  • Long-acting insulin (basal insulin) – Taken once or twice daily to maintain stable blood sugar levels between meals.
  • Rapid-acting insulin (bolus insulin) – Injected before meals to help process glucose from food.

This approach is known as the basal-bolus regimen, which closely mimics the body’s natural insulin production. For those using an insulin pump, only rapid-acting insulin is required since the pump continuously delivers small doses.

Long-Acting Insulin Options

Different types of long-acting insulin for type 1 diabetes include:

  • Insulin detemir (Levemir) – Typically injected twice daily.
  • Insulin glargine (Lantus, Toujeo, Semglee, or Abasaglar) – Taken once a day, ideal for those who prefer fewer injections.
  • Insulin degludec (Tresiba) – Suitable for individuals experiencing nighttime hypoglycemia or requiring caregiver assistance for injections.

Rapid-Acting Insulin Options

Commonly used rapid-acting insulin for type 1 diabetes includes:

  • Insulin aspart (NovoRapid, Fiasp, Trurapi).
  • Insulin lispro (Humalog, Admelog, Lyumjev).
  • Insulin glulisine (Apidra).

These are generally injected 15 minutes before meals, though some faster-acting options, such as Fiasp and Lyumjev, require less time before eating.

Proper Storage to Maintain Insulin Effectiveness

To ensure insulin remains effective, proper insulin storage is crucial:

  • Before use – Keep unopened insulin in the refrigerator at 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F), ensuring it does not freeze.
  • After opening – Once in use, insulin can be stored at room temperature (below 25°C to 30°C) for up to 28 days, but it should be kept away from direct sunlight and extreme heat.
  • While traveling – Insulin should be stored in a temperature-controlled travel case to prevent degradation due to temperature fluctuations.

Since different brands may have specific storage requirements, always refer to the manufacturer’s guidelines or consult a healthcare professional.