### Benefits of Ultra-Rapid Insulins for Diabetes Management Ultra-rapid insulins are a new generation of insulins that work faster than traditional rapid insulins. They can be particularly beneficial for people with type 1 and type 2 diabetes who need to manage their blood sugar levels around mealtimes. #### Types of Ultra-Rapid Insulins There are three main types of ultra-rapid insulins available in the United States: 1. **Lyumjev** 2. **Fiasp** 3. **Afrezza** (inhaled insulin) #### How They Work Ultra-rapid insulins start working about 5 to 10 minutes faster than traditional rapid insulins. This quick action can help reduce the glucose spikes that often occur after eating. For example, Lyumjev and Fiasp are modified versions of Humalog and NovoLog, respectively, and they reach peak effectiveness more quickly. Afrezza, the only inhaled insulin, works even faster. It starts affecting blood sugar levels within about 12 minutes, making it almost as fast as the natural insulin produced by the pancreas. #### Benefits 1. **Flexibility**: Because they work faster, ultra-rapid insulins offer more flexibility around mealtimes. You can inject them closer to when you start eating, which is particularly useful in situations where meal timing is unpredictable. 2. **Better Control**: These insulins can help keep blood sugar levels more stable after meals, reducing the risk of high blood sugar (hyperglycemia). 3. **Convenience**: Afrezza is inhaled, making it a good option for people who dislike needles or have skin reactions to injections. #### Considerations - **Cost**: Ultra-rapid insulins may be more expensive than traditional rapid insulins, and insurance coverage can vary. - **Health Risks**: Afrezza is not recommended for people with lung issues or those who smoke, and may require lung function tests before use. Overall, ultra-rapid insulins provide a faster and more flexible option for managing diabetes, especially around mealtimes.