Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 8, 2026

Measuring Relative Insulin Secretion using a Co-Secreted Luciferase Surrogate
Published on: June 25, 2019
Sliding scale insulin: will the false idol finally fall?
1Centre for Diabetes and Endocrinology Research and Department of Diabetes and Endocrinology, Westmead Hospital and University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia. wah@westgate.wh.usyd.edu.au
Abstract:
Despite a lack of evidence that sliding scale insulin has any clinical benefit, and some evidence that it may even be detrimental, sliding scale insulin is still commonly prescribed in hospitals today. Adopting a proactive rather than a reactive approach to managing diabetes by the use of 'supplemental insulin', given in conjunction with either considered adjustments to the patient's regular anti-diabetic therapy or the provision of basal insulin, is a more effective and safer means of improving glycaemic control in hospital. There are now randomized trial data to support this approach. These data, together with the recognition that there is no evidence base for the use of sliding scale insulin, coupled with changes to insulin prescribing charts in Australia, should lead to the demise of sliding scale insulin use in hospital.
Related Concept Videos
Insulin: Dosing Regimen and Adverse Effects
The basal dose constitutes about 40%-50% of the total daily dose, with the rest as premeal insulin. The mealtime insulin dose should mirror...
Oral Hypoglycemic Agents: Glinides
Glucagon-like Receptor Agonists
GLP-1, when administered in high doses intravenously, triggers insulin secretion, inhibits glucagon release, slows gastric emptying, reduces food intake, and restores normal insulin secretion. However, its rapid inactivation by the...
Insulin Formulations: Types and Delivery
Short-acting insulins are divided into rapid-acting...
Hypoglycemia
Insulin: Biosynthesis, Chemistry, and Preparation
Damage or functional impairment of β-cells inhibits insulin production, leading to diabetes. Diabetes treatment primarily uses...

