Which insulin is used for basal dosing for 24-hour coverage and has no peak?

Choice A rationale

Biologic response modifiers are primarily used for autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis due to their ability to target specific components of the immune system. They are not standard for osteoarthritis, as OA is a degenerative joint disease without a significant autoimmune component. These treatments do not address the inflammation or pain related to OA effectively.

Choice B rationale

Opiates are used for severe, short-term pain management but carry risks such as addiction and tolerance. They do not address the underlying inflammation in osteoarthritis. Long-term use is generally avoided for OA as safer options like NSAIDs are more effective for managing chronic symptoms without these risks.

Choice C rationale

Disease-Modifying Antirheumatic Drugs (DMARDs) are more effective for autoimmune conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, not osteoarthritis. OA lacks the autoimmune pathology targeted by DMARDs, making them unsuitable for managing OA symptoms like pain or stiffness.

Choice D rationale

NSAIDs are the first-line therapy for OA as they effectively reduce both inflammation and pain associated with the condition. By inhibiting cyclooxygenase enzymes, NSAIDs decrease prostaglandin production, leading to improved joint function and symptom control, making them the most common choice for OA symptom management.

Choice A rationale

Insulin glargine (Lantus) is a long-acting insulin used for basal glycemic control in diabetic patients. It has a slow onset and a steady release over approximately 24 hours, mimicking natural insulin secretion to stabilize blood glucose levels and prevent fluctuations.

Choice B rationale

Rapid-acting insulins, such as insulin lispro or aspart, have fast onsets and short durations to manage postprandial glucose spikes. Insulin glargine does not have these properties, as it is used for long-term basal control rather than immediate blood sugar regulation.

Choice C rationale

Intermediate-acting insulins like NPH have a shorter duration and peak effect compared to long-acting insulins. Insulin glargine provides a consistent effect over 24 hours, distinguishing it from intermediate-acting options.

Choice D rationale

Short-acting insulins are designed for pre-meal blood sugar control with a quick onset and limited duration. Insulin glargine does not fit this description due to its long-acting properties.