Last reviewed 2026-04-23 · How we verify

Insulin glulisine QD

Insulin glulisine is a rapid-acting insulin analog that binds to insulin receptors on muscle and fat cells to facilitate glucose uptake and lower blood glucose levels.

Insulin glulisine is a rapid-acting insulin analog that binds to insulin receptors on muscle and fat cells to facilitate glucose uptake and lower blood glucose levels. Used for Type 1 diabetes mellitus, Type 2 diabetes mellitus.

At a glance

Mechanism of action

Insulin glulisine is a recombinant human insulin analog with rapid onset and short duration of action. It binds to the insulin receptor with similar affinity to human insulin but has faster absorption and earlier peak action, making it suitable for mealtime glucose control in diabetes. It promotes glucose uptake into peripheral tissues and suppresses hepatic glucose production.

Approved indications

• Type 1 diabetes mellitus
• Type 2 diabetes mellitus

Common side effects

• Hypoglycemia
• Injection site reactions
• Weight gain
• Lipodystrophy

Key clinical trials

• FLuctuATion Reduction With inSULin and Glp-1 Added togetheR (FLAT-SUGAR) (PHASE4)
• Efficacy and Safety of Lixisenatide Versus Insulin Glulisine on Top of Insulin Glargine With or Without Metformin in Type 2 Diabetic Patients (PHASE3)
• Insulin Glulisine Administered Pre-meal Versus Post-meal in Adult Subjects With Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Receiving Insulin Glargine as Basal Insulin (PHASE3)
• Insulin Glargine Plus Insulin Glulisine Multiple Daily Injections (MDI) Versus Premix Insulin Treatment in Subjects With Diabetes Mellitus (Type 1 or Type 2) (PHASE3)

Primary sources

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