Vascular effects of rapid-acting insulin analogs in the diabetic patient: a review

The insulin analogs lispro, aspart, and glulisine are the only commercially available rapid-acting insulins to treat diabetes. We review the evidence for treating hyperglycemia, using insulin, and specifically using rapid-acting analogs in diabetic individuals, on the prevention of vascular events. We review the beneficial effects of insulin on the vascular system, which include vasodilation and anti-inflammatory actions. The effects of treating hyperglycemia and intensive blood glucose control on vascular outcomes are reviewed.