Name: Regular insulin
Class: Insulin (Fast-Acting Insulin Injection)
Mechanism: Interacts w/ insulin receptors on cell membranes ® phosph/dephosph of enzymes® glucose transport into cells (esp. fat & muscle), glycogen synth.,
¯ FFA, triglyceride storage, K+ & Mg2+ uptake, protein synth. Regulation of cell proliferation & differentiation. May activate cAMP (significance unknown).
Absorption: Injection (usu. SC).
Dist.:
Metabolism.: Rapidly Metabolism. by liver, kidneys, and muscle.
Excretion, t½: 5-6 min.
Toxicity/S.E.s: Most freq. = hypoglycemia ® ANS hyperactivity, impaired CNS fxn (confusion, bizarre behavior, coma). Skin rxns—transient urticaria, subcut. fibrosis, localized atrophy of subcut. tissue. Allergic rxn. Insulin resistance—refractory receptors or anti-insulin antibodies (may require 200-1000 units/d).
Utility: Treat diabetes mellitus. Preprandial control of blood glucose.
Special Features: Rapid onset (0.5-1 hr). Short duration (5-8 hr). Amorphous.