What is the duration of action for Regular insulin?

Regular insulin, also known as short-acting insulin, typically has a duration of action of about 6 to 8 hours. This range allows for effective glucose control, particularly for patients who may require insulin to manage their blood sugar levels following meals. It starts to work within approximately 30 minutes to 1 hour after administration, achieving its peak effect around 2 to 3 hours. Following the peak effect, the insulin continues to work for an additional 3 to 5 hours, which makes the total duration of around 6 to 8 hours consistent for most patients. Understanding the pharmacokinetics of regular insulin is crucial for properly managing insulin therapy, especially in pregnant patients where glycemic control is vital for both maternal and fetal health.