Insulin Therapy in Diabetes Mellitus

Insulin;

Overview:

Insulin therapy plays a crucial role in managing diabetes by regulating blood sugar levels and preventing complications. It involves administering insulin, a hormone produced by the pancreas.

What is Insulin?

• Insulin is a hormone that facilitates the absorption of glucose from the bloodstream into cells for energy.
• In diabetes, either the pancreas produces insufficient insulin like in Type 1 DM or the body becomes resistant to its effects like in Type 2 DM.

Types of Insulin:

1. Rapid-acting Insulin:
   • Onset: Within 15 minutes
   • Peak: 1 hour
   • Duration: 2-4 hours
   • Examples: Insulin lispro, insulin aspart
2. Short-acting Insulin:
   • Onset: Within 30 minutes
   • Peak: 2-3 hours
   • Duration: 3-6 hours
   • Example: Regular insulin
3. Intermediate-acting Insulin:

• Onset: 2-4 hours
• Peak: 4-12 hours
• Duration: Up to 18 hours
• Example: NPH insulin

4. Long-acting Insulin:

• Onset: 1-2 hours
• Peak: None
• Duration: Up to 24 hours
• Examples: Insulin glargine, insulin detemir

Insulin Therapy in Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus:

Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus:

• In Type 1 diabetes, insulin therapy is essential as the body doesn’t produce insulin.
• Treatment typically involves multiple daily injections or continuous insulin infusion via a pump.

Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus:

• Initially managed with lifestyle changes and oral medications.
• Insulin therapy may be required as the disease progresses, either alone or in combination with oral medications.

Doses:

• Insulin doses are individualized based on factors such as blood sugar levels, carbohydrate intake, and physical activity.
• Healthcare providers determine the appropriate dose through regular monitoring and adjustments.

Side Effects:

• Common side effects include hypoglycemia, weight gain, injection site reactions, and allergic reactions.
• Proper monitoring and education can help manage these side effects.

Preparations:

• Insulin is available in various forms, including vials, pre-filled pens, and pumps.
• Patients receive education on proper administration, storage, and handling.
• Regular follow-ups with healthcare providers are essential for monitoring and adjusting therapy as needed.

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