Which insulin preparation must be taken 5 minutes before meals?

The correct answer is Lispro, which is a fast-acting insulin analog designed for timely insulin coverage in relation to meals. It is typically taken approximately 5 to 15 minutes before a meal. This rapid onset of action allows for better management of postprandial blood glucose levels, as Lispro begins to lower blood sugar quickly after administration.

Levemir, on the other hand, is a long-acting insulin that provides a steady level of insulin over 24 hours and is not intended to be taken specifically before meals. NPH (Neutral Protamine Hagedorn) is an intermediate-acting insulin that has a delayed onset and is usually taken once or twice daily to provide coverage throughout the day but is not suited for immediate meal timing. Regular insulin is a short-acting insulin that requires administration about 30 minutes before a meal to allow time for its effects to take place, which is not aligned with the specified 5-minute timeframe.

Thus, Lispro's rapid action and appropriate meal timing make it the ideal choice for administration just before eating.