Regular insulin A short-acting insulin very similar to the insulin naturally produced by the pancreas. This insulin needs to be taken 30 minutes before eating and lasts for a few hours in the body. Related Articles: Glossary: Novolin RGlossary: Humulin RBasal Insulins (Intermediate and Long-Acting)Episode 11: A Real Diabetes Patient Story with JoeBolus Insulins (Short-Acting and Rapid-Acting)