Insulin awareness day: What is insulin therapy?

Insulin is a hormone that enables the human body to use glucose (sugar) for energy. People who have Type-1 diabetes do not produce enough insulin and need to take insulin every day. At the same time, those who have Type-2 diabetes may also require insulin therapy when their blood sugar level is not controlled through their lifestyle. Insulin therapy is a diabetes treatment that involves injecting insulin into the body to lower blood sugar levels. The insulin injection process is typically done using a needle, syringe, insulin pen, or insulin pump and is relatively simple and painless. The device is inserted into the fatty tissue under the skin, and the insulin is administered.

Insulin therapy can help prevent or delay further complications, including nerve damage, kidney damage, eye problems, and heart disease. However, insulin therapy also has some risks and challenges, such as hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), weight gain, injection site reactions, and medication errors. Therefore, insulin therapy requires careful monitoring and comprehensive education for the patient. While healthcare professionals guide patients, numerous support programs like Humrahi offer various services, including personalized diet counseling, bespoke counseling sessions, free blood sugar tests, and complementary medications. Available in twelve languages, Humrahi aims to create awareness, drive adherence and monitor progress. The partner-in-care approach, along with the guidance and support of the healthcare team, empowers the patient to take control of their treatment.

What are the types of insulin therapy?
Different types of insulin therapies are prescribed to patients depending on the type of diabetes, blood sugar goals, lifestyle, and preferences. The main types of insulin therapies are:

• Basal-bolus insulin therapy involves taking long or intermediate-acting insulin once or twice a day to provide a steady level of insulin and rapid or short-acting insulin before meals to cover the spikes caused by food. This therapy mimics the natural pattern of insulin secretion in the body.
• Fixed-dose insulin therapy involves taking a fixed dose of insulin at the same time every day, regardless of blood sugar level, food intake, or physical activity. This straightforward and convenient therapy can make routines easier and provide a sense of predictability and stability in insulin delivery.
• Insulin pump therapy involves wearing a small device under the skin that delivers a continuous infusion of rapid-acting insulin. The device is programmed to deliver different amounts of insulin throughout the day and night, providing more flexibility and precision in insulin delivery.
• Insulin pen therapy involves using a disposable or reusable pen-like device fitted with an insulin cartridge and a disposable needle. When injected into the skin, it administers a pre-desired dose of insulin. This therapy is more convenient and discreet in insulin delivery than other therapies.
• Insulin inhaler therapy involves inhaling a powder form of rapid-acting insulin through a device that resembles an asthma inhaler. Insulin is absorbed through the lungs and reaches the bloodstream quickly, offering a comfortable and less invasive form of insulin delivery.

What are the benefits of insulin therapy?
Better blood sugar control
Insulin therapy is a key component of blood sugar control for people with diabetes. Insulin helps the body use glucose as an energy source when the pancreas does not produce enough insulin or the cells do not respond to it properly, managing blood sugar levels.

Better weight management
Insulin therapy is a powerful tool for regulating glucose and fat metabolism. It systematically reduces hunger pangs and cravings caused by high blood sugar, which can help people with diabetes maintain a healthy weight and avoid overeating unhealthy foods.

Enhanced physical activity
Insulin therapy enables people with diabetes to engage in more physical activities, improving their cardiovascular health, muscle strength, flexibility, and endurance. Exercise can lower blood sugar levels, reduce stress, and boost mood and self-esteem.

Improved mental and emotional health
Insulin therapy can alleviate the psychological and emotional distress associated with diabetes, providing a sense of reassurance. It can also improve blood sugar control and enhance cognitive functions like memory, attention, and problem-solving.

Insulin therapy is a vital and effective treatment for people with diabetes who must regulate their blood sugar levels. By following the prescribed regimen, monitoring blood sugar levels, and communicating with the healthcare team, patients can achieve optimal outcomes and improve their quality of life.

(Author: Dr T Sunanda, MD DM Endocrinology, HOD Endocrinology Department, Narayana Medical College and Hospital, Nellore)