Which form of insulin is typically used in the treatment of diabetic ketoacidosis?

The typical use of regular insulin in the treatment of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is due to its rapid onset and relatively short duration of action. In situations like DKA, which is characterized by high blood glucose levels and a critical need for immediate reduction in blood sugar, regular insulin is preferred because it can quickly lower serum glucose levels.

Regular insulin acts swiftly, often starting to lower blood glucose within 15 minutes and reaching its peak effect in about 2 to 4 hours, making it ideal for acute management. In a hospital setting, it is often administered intravenously for rapid control of blood glucose.

Other forms of insulin, such as long-acting and intermediate insulin, have slower onset patterns and are used for maintaining basal insulin levels rather than providing the rapid response needed during a DKA crisis. Premixed insulin formulations combine different types of insulin, but they do not provide the necessary rapid action that is critical during emergencies like DKA. Thus, regular insulin is the most suitable choice for effectively managing this serious condition.