Treatment FAQ

which treatment for diabetes can patients receive through syringes and pumps?

by Angelita VonRueden Published 2 years ago Updated 2 years ago

Patients need to receive regular hormone injections through syringes, insulin pumps or other devices. These treatments may be accompanied by life. Because the patient's immune system destroys normal islet cells, after losing the function of the islets, they cannot control their blood sugar levels.

Most people with diabetes take insulin using a needle and syringe, insulin pen, or insulin pump. Inhalers and insulin jet injectors are less common ways to take insulin. Artificial pancreas systems are now approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

Full Answer

Do I need an insulin pump for type 2 diabetes?

A person with Type 2 diabetes may eventually require insulin to manage glucose levels. Wearing an insulin pump can make that transition easier and simplify living with diabetes. Learn about pump acces... MORE.

How does a syringe work for insulin?

How it works: A syringe is a thin, hollow needle connected to a chamber with a plunger. You draw up the amount of insulin you need from a vial, insert the needle into the fatty part of your skin, and push the plunger.

Are insulin syringes or pens better for diabetes?

For patients with diabetes who use insulin, insulin syringes and pens are both able to deliver insulin safely and effectively for the achievement of glycemic targets. When choosing among delivery systems, patient preferences, cost, insulin type and dosing regimen, and self-management capabilities should be considered.

Which type of insulin patch pump is right for You?

Disposable patch pumps: Disposable insulin “patch” pumps offer a very simple method of delivering insulin without injections. Determining which type of patch pump is right for you may depend on whether you need both basal (background) and bolus (mealtime) insulin or just bolus insulin.

Which diabetes uses syringes?

Summary. People with type 1 diabetes must inject insulin every day, often up to 4 or 5 times per day. There are different ways to inject insulin ranging from a syringe and needle, to an insulin delivery pen, to an insulin pump.

Which diabetes needs a pump?

Everyone with type 1 diabetes and many people with type 2 need to take insulin to manage their blood sugar levels. For now, there are two options: injecting it with a needle or pen, or using an insulin pump. An insulin pump is a small computerized device.

What treatment options are available for diabetes?

Diabetes treatmentsThere are a number of treatments available to help you manage and treat your diabetes. Everyone is different, so treatment will vary depending on your own individual needs. ... Insulin pumps. ... Islet cell transplant. ... Tablets and medication. ... Weight loss surgery. ... Diet and exercise. ... Insulin. ... Emotional support.

What type of diabetes treatment insulin administration is?

If you have type 1 diabetes, insulin therapy is vital for replacing the insulin your body doesn't produce. Sometimes, people with type 2 diabetes or gestational diabetes need insulin therapy if other treatments haven't been able to keep blood glucose levels within the desired range.

What is diabetes pump?

Insulin pumps can help people with diabetes conveniently manage their blood sugar. These small devices deliver doses of insulin at specific times. Many people find that insulin pumps are a more flexible option than insulin pen injections.

Which is better insulin pump or injections?

In the largest and longest study ever of an insulin pump with a continuous glucose sensor, patients who used the device achieved better control of their blood sugar than patients taking insulin injections.

What is the most common treatment for diabetes?

Insulin is the most common type of medication used in type 1 diabetes treatment. If you have type 1 diabetes, your body can't make its own insulin. The goal of treatment is to replace the insulin that your body can't make. Insulin is also used in type 2 diabetes treatment.

What are the names of injectable insulin?

Injectable Insulin MedicationsMedication name: Insulin glulisine (Apidra®) ... Medication name: Insulin aspart (Novolog®) ... Medication name: Insulin lispro U-100/U-200 (Humalog®) ... Medication name: Regular insulin (Novolin R, Humulin R) ... Medication name: NPH insulin (Novolin N, Humulin N)More items...•

What is the most common treatment for type 2 diabetes?

Metformin (Fortamet, Glumetza, others) is generally the first medication prescribed for type 2 diabetes. It works primarily by lowering glucose production in the liver and improving your body's sensitivity to insulin so that your body uses insulin more effectively.

What is insulin syringe?

An insulin syringe has three parts: a needle, a barrel, and a plunger. The needle is short and thin and covered with a fine layer of silicone to allow it to pass through the skin easily and reduce pain. A cap covers and protects the needle before it is used. The barrel is the long, thin chamber that holds the insulin.

What is an insulin pump for type 1 diabetes?

An insulin pump is a small medical device that delivers a continuous amount of fast-acting insulin 24 hours a day to match your insulin needs. It's an innovative alternative to injected insulin therapy, which means that on pump therapy you can say goodbye to multiple daily injections.

Is insulin the only treatment for type 1 diabetes?

Without insulin, blood glucose (sugar) levels become too high, and over time, this will harm the body. Diabetes mellitus is a lifelong condition that can be controlled with lifestyle adjustments and medical treatments. Insulin treatment is one component of a treatment plan for people with type 1 diabetes.

What are the different types of insulin delivery devices?

There are many different types of insulin delivery devices available including syringes, pens, jet injectors, oral insulin and pumps which are detailed below. Furthermore, insulin that can be inhaled and other new approached to insulin treatment are at different stages of availability and development throughout the world.

What is the most common form of insulin delivery?

Direct subcutaneous insulin injection remains the most common form of delivery, using a needle and syringe. The capacity of the syringe should be chosen depending on the dosage of insulin.Other factors are needle gauge and needle length, both of which should be adjusted for comfort.

What is insulin jet injector?

Insulin jet injectors are an amazing alternative for those people with diabetes who have needle phobia. However, this type of device is expensive and requires frequent sterilisation.

What is insulin pen?

Insulin Pens. Insulin pens are a very useful way to transport insulin in a discreet way, allowing you to administer insulin on the move or whenever suits you. Insulin pens are either disposable one-shot devices or they have replaceable cartridges of insulin.

Is an insulin pump still in development?

At this stage, implantable insulin pumps are still in development. Research teams across the globe are working to develop implantable insulin pumps to measure blood glucose levels and provide the precise insulin dose needed.

Can insulin inhalers be used in the future?

Insulin inhalers may use compressed air to deliver a dose of dry insulin or dissolved rapid-acting insulin that can then be inhaled.

Is an insulin pump accurate?

External Insulin Pumps. Although external insulin pumps remain hard to access and expensive, many people with diabetes find them to be accurate , precise and flexible as insulin delivery systems providing tight blood glucose control. Like most insulin delivery aids, it is important to monitor blood glucose regularly whilst on a pump.

How does a pump deliver insulin?

All pumps deliver insulin in 2 ways: basal and bolus delivery. The majority of pumps are NOT fully automatic; basal insulin will be delivered automatically, but bolus insulin (approximately 50% of daily needs) MUST be programmed by wearer.

How long does insulin take to work in a pump?

For most rapid-acting insulin, most insulin activity occurs within the first 3 hours after injection. Most models use a large syringe- like cartridge or reservoir to hold several days’ worth of insulin.

How much insulin is subtracted from a meal bolus?

For mild hypoglycemia, some patients may elect to forgo treatment with fast-acting carbohydrates and subtract 10-15 grams from meal total. Many pumps also offer a reverse correction feature where insulin is subtracted from a meal bolus when BG falls below the lower range of the target level.

How long does it take for insulin to be adjusted?

Upon initiation of insulin pump therapy, it is recommended that patients have face-to-face follow-up with their diabetes care providers within the first 3-14 days after starting. As with patients on MDI, insulin doses for patients on insulin pumps should be adjusted regularly.

What is the ISF in pump?

Pump is pre-programmed with an Insulin Sensitivity Factor (ISF) or Correction Factor (the number of BG points that 1 unit of insulin drops the BG) and a target blood glucose range, which acts as the goal for the mathematical determination of the correction bolus.

Why does the body need insulin when you are sick?

Sick Days. In the event that someone is ill and not eating, the body still requires insulin to counteract increases in glucose and ketone production by the liver due to increased secretion of stress hormones (cortisol, glucagon, growth hormone, epinephrine/norepinephrine).

How often should a teflon catheter be changed?

Teflon catheter should be changed every 3 days and it is recommended that steel needle sets be changed every 2 days.

Insulin Pens

The goal of insulin administration is to normalize blood glucose levels,whether a patient has type 1 or type 2 diabetes.

Monitoring Glucose

With the exception of the discovery of insulin, the development of self-monitoring of blood glucose (SMBG) may be the most important advance in diabetes management. Before the commercial availability of blood glucose meters, patients monitored their response to therapy by estimating the glucose concentration in urine.

Insulin Pumps

Insulin pumps have been commercially available since the 1970s to control glucose levels in patients primarily with type 1 diabetes.

How does a syringe work?

How it works: A syringe is a thin, hollow needle connected to a chamber with a plunger. You draw up the amount of insulin you need from a vial, insert the needle into the fatty part of your skin, and push the plunger.

What is the pump in the blood?

The pump sends small doses of insulin into your bloodstream throughout the day. When you eat, you push a button for an extra boost of insulin. Pros: When you use them right, pumps give the best results.

How long can you go without insulin?

You can disconnect for a short while, but you shouldn’t go without insulin for more than 1 or 2 hours. Inhaled Insulin. How it works: Inhaled insulin comes in a powder. You put it in a small inhaler the size of a whistle and breathe it in. Cells in your lungs transfer it to your bloodstream.

How small are pen needles?

Plus, the needles are tiny -- as small as 4 millimeters long, and thinner than ever. “If you don't squint, you can't see them,” McGill says. It’s also very easy to use.

Can diabetes be controlled with insulin?

Medically Reviewed by Michael Dansinger, MD on March 19, 2016. From the WebMD Archives. Diabetes keeps your body from using insulin correctly -- or in the case of type 1 diabetes, making insulin. Insulin treatments can control your diabetes safely and easily. They can also give your body the blood sugar levels you need to stay healthy.

Does insurance cover pumping?

Cons: The pump is costly, as are the monthly supplies. Most insurance covers pumps, but there’s often a hefty copay. Also, know that once you choose a pump, you’re stuck with it for a while. “Insurance won't approve another one for 4 to 5 years,” McGill says. You’re also always attached.

Can you use insulin in a pen?

It’s also very easy to use. “All the insulin you need is in the pen,” Klonoff says. It’s also portable. Once the insulin inside is used up, you throw the pen away, or if it’s refillable, insert a new insulin cartridge. Some pens even come with a memory feature -- they can tell you when and how much your last dose was.

Why is blood sugar important for a pump?

Checking blood sugar is important because it will warn you if your pump stops working right or your infusion set stops working. This can cause high blood sugar levels and cause diabetes ketoacidosis (DKA), which is very serious and dangerous. Checking blood sugar levels frequently will alert you to this possibility and will prevent the development of ketones.

What is insulin pump?

Insulin pumps are small, computerized devices that deliver insulin in two ways: As a surge ("bolus") dose, at your direction, around mealtime.

How do insulin pumps work?

For people living with diabetes who are tired of injections, an insulin pump can bring welcomed relief. Insulin pumps are small, computerized devices that deliver insulin in two ways: 1 In a steady measured and continuous dose (the "basal" insulin), or 2 As a surge ("bolus") dose, at your direction, around mealtime.

How is insulin delivered?

Doses are delivered through a flexible plastic tube called a catheter. With the aid of a small needle, the catheter is inserted through the skin into the fatty tissue and is taped in place. The tube/needle combination is called an infusion set. The pumps can release small doses of insulin continuously ...

Why do you have to go off the pump for a while?

Some have issues with their infusion sites, so they go off the pump for a while to let their injection sites recover. It’s a choice based on whatever works to make diabetes treatment easier and better. There are a number of pumps on the market, and it’s important to research what is best for you/your child.

What happens if a pump breaks?

If it breaks or falls off, the person wearing it needs to be ready to give insulin by injection any time it is needed.

Who benefits from changes in basal rates or suspending the pump when exercising?

Active people, who benefit from changes in basal rates or suspending the pump when exercising. People who have frequent low blood sugar reactions. Anyone who has delays in absorption of food from the stomach (gastroparesis). Women planning pregnancy.

Why do people with Type 2 diabetes need insulin pumps?

People with Type 2 diabetes often prefer insulin pumps because of the flexibility that the treatment provides and the freedom from injections. We can’t forget that every person with diabetes has specific requirements and that is why it’s important to choose, along with healthcare professionals, the best possible treatment plan for each individual.

What are the advantages of using insulin pumps with Type 2 diabetes?

With the basal and bolus insulin delivery, insulin controls effects of carbohydrates on blood sugar, pumps work similarly to the way a pancreas would and can give the wearer less to think about.

How does a pump work?

Pumps are small, computerized machines that deliver insulin through a tiny catheter inserted into the skin with a small needle or cannula. There are two methods of dosing: Basal: Small, continuous doses to keep glucose levels stable in between meals. Bolus: Dosages to control levels after meals or correct high blood sugar levels.

What is the best way to control diabetes?

Insulin Pumps. Insulin pumps can be incredibly helpful for people with diabetes in terms of management. While many people still prefer the traditional method of insulin dosing via injections, insulin pumps have come a long way and help achieve better glucose control. Pumps are small, computerized machines that deliver insulin through ...

Why do people use pump therapy?

Pumps help decrease the risk of hypoglycemia, as they alert the user when they’re low. Weight gain has not been a factor in studies of users testing pump therapy. Discretion: it can be easier to control and conceal pumps, as opposed to opting to give yourself insulin injections in public.

Why is it important to understand the differences between multiple daily injections (MDIs) and pumps?

It is important to understand the differences between multiple daily injections (MDIs) and pumps in order to optimize your personal treatment plan for diabetes.

Can you stop monitoring your insulin levels?

Some people find it hard to trust machines with their life and opting for pump therapy does not mean you can stop monitoring your levels yourself. This can increase the risks of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). People with Type 2 diabetes often prefer insulin pumps because of the flexibility that the treatment provides and the freedom from injections.

Education and Training

In general, no device used in diabetes management works optimally without education, training, and follow-up. There are multiple resources for online tutorials and training videos as well as written material on the use of devices. Patients vary in terms of comfort level with technology, and some prefer in-person training and support.

Use in Schools

Instructions for device use should be outlined in the student’s diabetes medical management plan (DMMP). A back-up plan should be included in the DMMP for potential device failure (e.g., BGM and/or injected insulin).

Initiation of Device Use

Use of CGM devices should be considered from the outset of the diagnosis of diabetes that requires insulin management ( 2, 3 ). This allows for close tracking of glucose levels with adjustments of insulin dosing and lifestyle modifications and removes the burden of frequent BGM.

Meter Standards

Glucose meters meeting FDA guidance for meter accuracy provide the most reliable data for diabetes management. There are several current standards for accuracy of blood glucose monitors, but the two most used are those of the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) (ISO 15197:2013) and the FDA.

Optimizing Blood Glucose Monitoring Device Use

Optimal use of BGM devices requires proper review and interpretation of data, by both the patient and the provider, to ensure that data are used in an effective and timely manner. In patients with type 1 diabetes, there is a correlation between greater BGM frequency and lower A1C ( 11 ).

Benefits of Continuous Glucose Monitoring

Multiple randomized controlled trials (RCTs) have been performed using rtCGM devices, and the results have largely been positive in terms of reducing A1C levels and/or episodes of hypoglycemia as long as participants regularly wore the devices ( 30, 31, 40 – 61 ).

Real-time Continuous Glucose Monitoring Device Use in Pregnancy

One well-designed RCT showed a reduction in A1C levels in adult women with type 1 diabetes on MDI or CSII who were pregnant and using rtCGM in addition to standard care, including optimization of pre- and postprandial glucose targets ( 82 ).

How long can a diabetic syringe be stored in the refrigerator?

Avoid eating carbohydrates. "Yes, prefilled syringes can be stored for up to 3 weeks in the refrigerator in a vertical position with the needle pointing up.". An older patient with diabetes is visually impaired and asks if syringes can be prefilled and stored for use later.

How many units of insulin can you withdraw from a NPH bottle?

Place the same needle with the syringe attached into the NPH bottle, invert the bottle, and withdraw 15 units of NPH insulin into the same syringe with the regular insulin. h. Without removing the needle, turn the bottle upside down and withdraw 20 units of regular insulin, then withdraw the needle from the bottle.

What are the risks of low insulin levels?

d. Low levels increase the risk for obesity, pancreatitis, dehydration, and certain types of cancer. Patients with type 1 diabetes produce no insulin, whereas patients with type 2 diabetes produce insulin but their insulin receptors are not very sensitive to it.

What is the difference between type 1 and type 2 diabetes?

c. Patients with type 1 diabetes are at higher risk for obesity and heart disease, whereas patients with type 2 diabetes are at higher risk for strokes. d. Patients with type 1 diabetes produce no insulin, whereas patients with type 2 diabetes produce insulin but their insulin receptors are not very sensitive to it.

Does wine increase insulin?

a. "Insulin activity is dramatically reduced under the influence of alcohol, and drinking even one glass of wine will increase your insulin requirements.". b. "Diabetes reduces your kidney function, so you should avoid ingesting alcohol in all forms at all times.".

Does insulin have a first pass loss rate?

d. Oral insulin has a high "first pass loss" rate in the liver and would require very high dosages to be effective. "A single daily dose of insulin would not match your blood insulin levels to your food intake patterns closely enough.". A patient who has been newly diagnosed with diabetes and prescribed insulin therapy asks why more ...

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