Intermediate-acting refers to a category of medications or substances that have a moderate duration of action. These agents typically take effect within a few hours and can last for several hours, making them useful for managing conditions that require consistent control without the need for frequent dosing. In the context of insulin, for example, intermediate-acting insulin helps regulate blood sugar levels in individuals with diabetes. It provides a balance between rapid-acting and long-acting insulins, allowing for better management of blood glucose throughout the day.