Guidelines for using insulin lispro.
OBJECTIVE
To review the best evidence-based literature on the insulin analogue, lispro insulin, and to provide guidelines for its use.


METHODS
Using the MeSH terms, lispro and insulin analogues, we searched PubMed, Current Contents, MEDLINE, and EMBASE from January 1986 to July 1998 and selected 42 articles out of 97 for high quality and relevance to family medicine. Twenty-eight were randomized controlled trials, but only two studies were blinded because lispro and regular insulin have different optimal times of administration.


RESULTS
The new insulin analogue, lispro, produces a much more rapid, higher, and shorter-lasting peak level of insulin than regular human insulin, thus mimicking physiologic secretion of insulin more closely. This allows insulin administration just before or just after meals and means patients can manage with fewer snacks. Lispro controls postprandial blood glucose levels better and does not cause hypoglycemia. Although most older studies showed no change in glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) levels, a few recent studies involving refinements, such as continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion or basal insulin to reduce preprandial glucose levels, have found small but significant improvements. Insulin lispro has also been used successfully in cases of insulin resistance and insulin allergy.


CONCLUSIONS
Lispro is a useful addition for motivated diabetic patients who like to achieve better control of HbA1c without increased hypoglycemia and to match mealtime insulin injections with diet, exercise, and various lifestyles.
Toth
E L
EL
Department of Medicine, Heritage Medical Research Centre, University of Alberta, Edmonton. ellen.toth@ualberta.ca
Lee
K C
KC
D001786:Blood Glucose / Q000187:drug effects; D019317:Evidence-Based Medicine; D006442:Glycated Hemoglobin / Q000187:drug effects; D006801:Humans; D007004:Hypoglycemic Agents / Q000494:pharmacology / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D007328:Insulin / Q000031:analogs & derivatives* / Q000494:pharmacology / Q000627:therapeutic use; D061268:Insulin Lispro; D008019:Life Style; D017410:Practice Guidelines as Topic; D012107:Research Design
D001786:Blood Glucose; D006442:Glycated Hemoglobin; D007004:Hypoglycemic Agents; D007328:Insulin; D061268:Insulin Lispro