Number-Based Approach to Insulin Taxonomy

Abstract

This article describes a number-based system for the classification of insulin regimes. It utilizes a patient-centered variable (number of injections per day) and pharmacokinetic/dynamic characteristics to craft a taxonomic system that is able to incorporate all available insulin preparations and coformulations. This framework of systematics is robust enough to include various molecules that have been recently developed. It serves to enhance understanding of the subject, and facilitates the practical or clinical usage of theoretical knowledge. We propose that number-based insulin taxonomic models should be used in clinical guidelines and recommendations rather than restricting ourselves to pharmaceutical-based classifications. PubMed articles including both review articles and clinical trials published since the year 1990 were searched, to gather evidence and information on the various types of insulins available, and how they can be used, based on the number or frequency of injections prescribed per day.

Keywords: Aspart; Basal insulin; BiAsp; Coformulation of insulin; Degludec; Glargine; Glulisine; IDegAsp; IDegLira; Insulin; Intensive insulin; Lispro; LisproMix; LixiLan; Premixed insulin; U300.