Final answer:
Long-acting insulin is used to manage blood glucose levels for 24 hours in individuals with diabetes, particularly IDDM. It is designed to provide a steady insulin level, mimicking the body's natural insulin release. It decreases blood glucose levels by helping cells utilize glucose effectively.
Step-by-step explanation:
A long-acting insulin refers to a type of insulin that has an extended duration of action, typically around 24 hours, to manage blood glucose levels in individuals with diabetes. It is designed to mimic the body's natural, low-level release of insulin and helps maintain a stable blood glucose baseline throughout the day and night. Long-acting insulins, such as insulin glargine or insulin detemir, are usually administered once daily to reduce the risk of lows or highs in blood sugar levels. These insulins provide the benefit of a steady insulin level, which can be critical for those with Insulin Dependent Diabetes Mellitus (IDDM).
According to the information provided, insulin injections, including long-acting ones, function by facilitating the transport and storage of glucose to decrease blood glucose levels after a meal that contains a significant amount of glucose. This effect is illustrated in Graph-A, where the injection of insulin in normal or insulin-responsive individuals leads to a decrease in blood glucose levels due to the enhanced utilization of glucose by cells, aided by insulin. The graph also contrasts with the effects seen when glucagon is injected, indicating an increase in blood glucose levels as glucose is released from the cells.