Rapid-acting insulins

Rapid-acting insulins, such as lispro, aspart, and glulisine, start working within about 15 minutes and peak in roughly one to two hours. They cover the rise in blood sugar that follows a meal. They are given just before eating, or right after a meal when the amount eaten is uncertain. Because they act so quickly, low blood sugar can develop fast if a meal is delayed or skipped.

• Insulin lisproKnown brand names include Humalog, Admelog, and Lyumjev.