Question 9

Regular insulin may be administered intravenously as well as subcutaneously.

Regular insulin is the only insulin formulation that can be safely and effectively administered both intravenously and subcutaneously, making it suitable for situations requiring rapid control of blood glucose levels.

A) Regular

Regular insulin is designed for both subcutaneous and intravenous administration, allowing for flexibility in treatment, particularly in acute care settings. Its pharmacokinetic profile supports quick action, which is critical when managing patients in emergencies.

B) NPH

NPH (Neutral Protamine Hagedorn) insulin is an intermediate-acting insulin that is not suitable for intravenous use. It is formulated for subcutaneous administration due to its slower onset and prolonged action, making it inappropriate for rapid glycemic control via IV.

C) 70/30

70/30 insulin, a combination of 70% NPH and 30% regular insulin, is primarily intended for subcutaneous use. The presence of NPH in this mixture limits its suitability for intravenous administration, as the NPH component cannot be given IV.

D) Glargine

Glargine insulin is a long-acting insulin that is specifically formulated for subcutaneous use only. Its pharmacological properties prevent it from being utilized intravenously, as it is designed to provide a steady release of insulin over a prolonged period.

Conclusion

Regular insulin is distinctly the only option that can be administered both intravenously and subcutaneously, making it essential for immediate blood glucose management. The other options, NPH, 70/30, and Glargine, are not suitable for intravenous use due to their formulation and pharmacokinetics, thus confirming that Regular insulin is the correct choice.