Insulin
Also known as: Regular Insulin, Humulin, Novolin
Key Facts: Insulin
- Category
- Hormonal
- FDA Status
- FDA Approved
- Clinical Status
- FDA Approved - Essential diabetes medication
- Administration
- Subcutaneous injection, pump, or inhaled
- Typical Dose
- Limited community data available
- Frequency
- See research protocols
- Evidence Level
- FDA Approved
- Duration
- Lifelong for Type 1 diabetes
What to Expect
The essential peptide hormone for glucose metabolism. Multiple formulations from rapid to long-acting available for diabetes management.
Mechanism of Action
Insulin binds to insulin receptors, triggering glucose uptake into cells, glycogen synthesis, protein synthesis, and fat storage. It's the primary anabolic hormone regulating blood glucose levels.
Research Summary
Discovery revolutionized diabetes treatment in 1921. Continuous innovation from animal-derived to recombinant human to analog insulins. Remains essential for Type 1 and many Type 2 diabetes patients.
Dosing Information
Typical Dosingⓘ
Community experience
Limited community data available
See research dosing
See research protocols
Research Dosingⓘ
Scientific studies
Highly individualized dosing
Doses from Studies
Varies widely by patient needs
Basal + bolus regimens common
Duration
Lifelong for Type 1 diabetes
Administration
Subcutaneous injection, pump, or inhaled
Timing & Administration
Best Time to Take
Morning
Follow specific protocol
Food Recommendation
Take on empty stomach
Why This Timing?
Metabolic peptides often work best when taken in the morning to support daytime energy expenditure.
Possible Side Effects
Not everyone experiences these effects. Individual responses vary based on dosage, duration, and personal factors.
- ●Hypoglycemia (most common and serious)
- ●Weight gain
- ●Injection site reactions
- ●Lipodystrophy
- ●Allergic reactions
- ●Hypokalemia
- ●Vision changes
- ●Low therapeutic index - requires careful monitoring
- ●FDA approved
References
Related Peptides
Peptides commonly compared with Insulin or used in similar applications.
Octreotide
FDAA synthetic somatostatin analog that inhibits multiple hormones. Used for acromegaly, carcinoid tumors, and various GI conditions.
HormonalOxytocin
FDAA naturally occurring peptide hormone crucial for social bonding, childbirth, and lactation. Being studied for autism, anxiety, and social disorders.
HormonalGonadorelin
FDAA synthetic version of gonadotropin-releasing hormone. Used diagnostically and therapeutically for various reproductive and hormonal conditions.
HormonalLeuprolide
FDAA GnRH agonist that suppresses testosterone and estrogen production. FDA approved for prostate cancer, endometriosis, uterine fibroids, and precocious puberty.
HormonalDesmopressin
FDAA synthetic analog of vasopressin (ADH) used for diabetes insipidus, bedwetting, and bleeding disorders. Does not cause vasoconstriction like natural vasopressin.
HormonalLanreotide
FDAA long-acting somatostatin analog similar to octreotide. FDA approved for acromegaly and gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine tumors.
HormonalWant updates on Insulin research?
Subscribe to get notified when we add new research findings, protocol updates, and related peptide information.
Educational Information Only
This information is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult with qualified healthcare providers before making any decisions about peptides or other substances. The protocols listed reflect doses observed in research studies, not recommendations.