What routes can regular insulin be administered by?

Regular insulin is a formulation of insulin that can be administered in several ways, making it versatile in the management of diabetes. The correct answer is that it can be given subcutaneously, intravenously, and intramuscularly.

Subcutaneous administration is the most common method used in diabetic therapy, allowing for a slow and steady absorption of insulin into the bloodstream. This is typically done via injections in areas such as the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm.

Intravenous administration is used in more acute settings, such as in hospitals, where rapid control of blood glucose levels is necessary, especially in situations like diabetic ketoacidosis or during surgery. This method provides immediate effects as the insulin enters directly into the bloodstream.

Intramuscular administration is less common but can be utilized in certain scenarios when other routes are not suitable. It may be used for patients who require rapid action of insulin but do not have intravenous access.

The combination of these routes provides healthcare professionals with the flexibility to administer regular insulin effectively depending on the clinical situation and patient needs.