In a nutshell
This study compared the effects of two types of insulin – the currently used fast-acting insulin aspart (NovoLOG/NovoRapid) and a new faster-acting insulin aspart. The study concluded that the faster-acting insulin aspart had a faster blood glucose lowering effect.
Some background
In individuals without diabetes, the natural response of the body after eating food with glucose (sugar) is to very rapidly release insulin (the hormone needed to break down glucose). Fast-acting insulin was developed to try and copy this natural response. Insulin aspart is quickly absorbed by the body and is fast-acting. It is used to supply the level of insulin needed during mealtimes. However, even though insulin aspart is called fast-acting, it is still absorbed too slowly to mimic the natural insulin release in those without diabetes.
The new faster-acting insulin aspart could more closely replicate natural insulin release and therefore improve glucose control.
Methods & findings
The current study compared two types of insulin, the currently used fast-acting insulin aspart and a new faster-acting version. The study included 52 participants with type 1 diabetes. Participants completed 3 study sessions. At each session patients received regular insulin aspart, the faster-acting insulin aspart, or a third type of insulin. The effects of each form of insulin on the body were measured during each session.
The new faster-acting insulin aspart had a 57% earlier onset of appearance in the blood compared to the regular insulin aspart. The time for insulin levels to reach half of their maximum concentrations in the blood was 35% earlier with the new faster-acting insulin aspart. The new insulin aspart had a 50% greater glucose-lowering effect within the first 30 minutes of receiving the drug than did regular aspart.
The bottom line
The study concluded that the faster-acting insulin aspart appeared in the blood faster and had a greater early glucose-lowering effect compared to the classic aspart.
The fine print
Novo Nordisk, the producers of insulin aspart, funded this study.
Published By :
Diabetes, Obesity and Metabolism
Date :
Jul 01, 2015
