Pharmacy Technician Certification Board Practice Exam

What is a long-acting insulin product that is typically given once a day in the evening?

1. Insulin detemir

2. Insulin aspart

3. Insulin NPH

4. Insulin glulisine

The correct answer is: Insulin detemir

Insulin detemir is a long-acting insulin that is commonly administered once a day, often in the evening, due to its pharmacokinetic profile. This insulin is designed to provide a steady release of insulin over an extended period, which helps to maintain basal insulin levels throughout the day and night. The primary advantage of administering insulin detemir in the evening is that it can aid in managing blood glucose levels overnight and into the fasting state of the next day. Its onset of action is relatively gradual, and the duration of action allows for flexibility in insulin management, making it a suitable choice for many patients with type 1 and type 2 diabetes. The other mentioned options represent different types of insulin with distinct characteristics. Insulin aspart and insulin glulisine are rapid-acting insulins, typically used around mealtimes to control postprandial blood glucose. Insulin NPH is an intermediate-acting insulin and usually requires more than one dose a day to cover basal and postprandial needs. Thus, in contrast to these options, insulin detemir stands out for its long-acting profile and once-daily administration.