Common and Severe Side Effects and Characteristics of Insulin
Insulin is a life-saving hormone used primarily in the management of diabetes mellitus, a chronic condition characterized by high blood sugar levels. It plays a crucial role in regulating glucose metabolism by facilitating the uptake of glucose into cells, where it is used for energy or stored for future use. While insulin therapy is essential for many individuals with diabetes, it is not without its side effects. Understanding both the common and severe side effects, as well as the characteristics of insulin, is vital for patients and healthcare providers to ensure safe and effective treatment. Characteristics of Insulin 1. Types of Insulin Insulin is categorized based on its onset, peak, and duration of action. These characteristics determine how quickly the insulin starts working, when it reaches its maximum effectiveness, and how long it remains active in the body. The main types of insulin include: Rapid-acting insulin : This type of insulin begins to work within 10 to 20 mi...