What is the duration of action for NPH insulin?

NPH insulin, which stands for Neutral Protamine Hagedorn insulin, is an intermediate-acting insulin typically used for managing blood glucose levels in individuals with diabetes. The duration of action for NPH insulin is generally around 10 to 16 hours, with a more precise understanding that it usually lasts about 12 hours for most patients.

This characteristic makes it suitable for twice-daily dosing in conjunction with shorter-acting insulins, allowing for better coverage of blood glucose levels throughout the day and night. The formulation of NPH insulin includes protamine, which helps to delay its absorption and prolong its action compared to regular insulin. This is important in clinical practice as it helps to manage insulin needs in a way that balances meal coverage and fasting blood sugar control.

Understanding this duration is critical for both patients and healthcare providers in order to optimize insulin therapy and to prevent both hyperglycemia and hypoglycemia.