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Updated: Dec 26, 2025

Improving IV Insulin Administration in a Community Hospital
Published on: June 11, 2012
PURL: NPH insulin: It remains a good option
Ben Arthur1, Ashley Smith1, Nick Bennett1
1Madigan Family Medicine Residency, JBLM/Tacoma, WA, USA.
Neutral Protamine Hagedorn (NPH) insulin is as effective as more expensive basal insulin analogs for diabetes management. This finding suggests NPH insulin offers a cost-effective alternative for patients requiring basal insulin therapy.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Pharmacoeconomics
Background:
- Basal insulin analogs are commonly used for diabetes management.
- Cost can be a significant barrier to insulin access and adherence.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the efficacy of Neutral Protamine Hagedorn (NPH) insulin with basal insulin analogs.
- To evaluate the cost-effectiveness of NPH insulin.
Main Methods:
- A comparative study design was employed.
- Efficacy was assessed through glycemic control metrics.
- Cost analysis was performed.
Main Results:
- NPH insulin demonstrated comparable efficacy to basal insulin analogs in managing blood glucose levels.
- NPH insulin was found to be significantly cheaper than basal insulin analogs.
Conclusions:
- NPH insulin provides a viable and cost-effective option for basal insulin therapy.
- Healthcare providers and patients should consider NPH insulin as an affordable alternative.
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