Insulin Clinics

A plain-language reference on insulin therapy.

Plain-language answers to the questions people actually ask — about starting insulin, adjusting it, living with it, and knowing when something is wrong.

Last updated: October 2026 · Based on ADA Standards of Care, FDA prescribing information, and NIDDK · General information, not medical advice

If this is an emergency — severe low blood sugar, vomiting with high blood sugar, confusion, or trouble breathing — call your local emergency number now. This site is reference information, not medical advice.

Foundations

  1. What insulin is and how it worksWhy your body needs it, what insulin therapy replaces, and what it doesn't.
  2. Types of insulinRapid, short, intermediate, long, ultra-long, and premixed — onset, peak, and duration chart.
  3. Long-acting (basal) insulin comparedGlargine, degludec, detemir, NPH, and once-weekly insulin — how long each lasts.
  4. Rapid-acting (mealtime) insulinWhen to take it relative to food, ultra-rapid options, and common timing mistakes.
  5. How insulin is deliveredSyringes, pens, pumps, and inhaled insulin compared.
  6. Inhaled insulinHow Afrezza works, who it is for, lung testing, and side effects.

Starting and managing

  1. Starting insulin therapyWhat to expect at the first visit, common fears, and what changes day to day.
  2. Insulin side effectsLow blood sugar, weight gain, swelling, skin reactions — what is common and what needs a call.
  3. Dosing and adjustmentBasal-bolus, carb counting, and titration in plain English.
  4. Correction insulinHow correction doses and insulin sensitivity factors work, and how to avoid stacking.
  5. Injection techniqueSites, rotation, needle length, and what causes lipohypertrophy.
  6. Insulin syringesSizes, unit markings, needle length, and buying syringes at a pharmacy.
  7. Storage, handling, and travelFridge versus room temperature, heat, cold, flying, and time zones.
  8. How long insulin can be out of the fridgeRoom-temperature limits by product, insulin left out, and mailing insulin.

Monitoring and safety

  1. Monitoring blood glucoseFingersticks, CGMs, A1C, and time in range — what each tells you.
  2. Low blood sugarHow to recognize it, the 15-15 rule, and when to use glucagon.
  3. High blood sugar and DKAWarning signs, ketone testing, and when to seek emergency care.

Special situations and reference

  1. Sick days, exercise, and pregnancyWhen normal rules change, and how to plan ahead.
  2. Cost and accessInsurance, copay caps, manufacturer programs, and biosimilars.
  3. Questions for your clinicianA printable checklist for your next appointment.
  4. GlossaryPlain definitions of key terms used on this site.