US Medical Term · medications
Insulin
Insulina
In 9 languages
| Language | Term |
|---|---|
| English | Insulin |
| Spanish (Español) | Insulina |
| Chinese (中文) | 胰島素 |
| Korean (한국어) | 인슐린 |
| Vietnamese (Tiếng Việt) | Insulin |
| Filipino (Tagalog) | Insulin |
| Portuguese (Português) | Insulina |
| Thai (ภาษาไทย) | อินซูลิน |
| Japanese (日本語) | インスリン |
What it means
Insulin is a hormone medication that helps the body use sugar (glucose) for energy by allowing it to enter cells. People with type 1 diabetes must take insulin because their body makes none. Many people with type 2 diabetes also use insulin when other medications are not enough. Insulin comes in different types — rapid-acting, short-acting, intermediate, and long-acting — each with a different timing profile. It is typically injected under the skin or delivered through an insulin pump. Store unopened insulin in the refrigerator; opened vials can be kept at room temperature for up to 30 days. Never skip doses without guidance, as this can cause dangerously high blood sugar.
How to say it
Sentences a patient might use with a doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or insurer:
What type of insulin was prescribed — is it long-acting or short-acting?
¿Qué tipo de insulina me recetaron, es de acción prolongada o de acción corta?
How do I store my insulin correctly at home?
¿Cómo debo almacenar correctamente mi insulina en casa?
Does my insurance cover insulin pens or do I need to use vials?
¿Mi seguro cubre las plumas de insulina o necesito usar frascos?
Where you'll see it
Related terms
Sources
Last reviewed: September 2026