Insulins

Insulins

Introduction

• Insulin is a polypeptide hormone essential for glucose metabolism.

Types of Insulin (AR)

• Animal Insulins (Porcine and Bovine): Almost entirely replaced by recombinant human insulin.

• Recombinant Human Insulin: Includes related analogues of consistent quality and fewer allergic effects.

Formulations

• Various formulations exist with different pharmacokinetic properties:

  • Insulins with protamine or zinc.

• Different rates of absorption and durations of action.

Designer Insulins (LG)

• Synthetic polypeptides similar to insulin with minor amino acid changes:

  • Insulin Lispro: Switched lysine and proline residues for rapid absorption, can be injected immediately before meals.

  • Insulin Glargine: Slow-acting, maintains low insulin levels for 24 hours.