[Lispro-insulin analogs in therapy of diabetes]

Since January 1997 the first insulin analogue, lispro has been approved for clinical use in Austria. Insulin lispro has a more rapid onset of action than regular insulin and can therefore be injected immediately before the meal, providing increased therapeutic flexibility for the patients. In many studies a slight decrease in frequency of hypoglycaemic attacks was reported. Insulin lispro did not alter the glycosylated haemoglobin values in the largest multicentre study, although the postprandial glucose concentrations were significantly lower. There was no increased incidence of allergic or other adverse events. No data have been published as yet on the use of insulin lispro in children under 10 years of age and during pregnancy. Potential advantages and disadvantages of insulin lispro therapy, as well as individual factors pertaining to the patient must be taken into consideration on planing treatment with this new insulin analogue. Patients should be well informed about the different action profile of insulin lispro, especially with regard to exercise.