Insulin Therapy in Small Animals, Part 3: Dogs

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Medicine
• Endocrinology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Insulin therapy in dogs aims to replicate a basal-bolus pattern.
• Traditional intermediate-acting insulins (Lente, NPH, PZI, glargine U100, detemir) require twice-daily dosing.
• Protocols using these insulins focus on managing clinical signs while minimizing hypoglycemia.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the suitability of newer basal insulins for canine diabetes management.
• To determine if advanced basal insulins can provide effective and safe glycemic control in dogs.
• To compare the efficacy of basal insulin alone versus basal-plus-bolus insulin regimens.

Main Methods:

• Assessment of insulin glargine U300 and insulin degludec for basal insulin criteria.
• Evaluation of clinical sign control in dogs treated with basal insulin.
• Analysis of cases requiring supplemental bolus insulin for optimized glycemic control.

Main Results:

• Insulin glargine U300 and insulin degludec meet criteria for safe and effective basal insulin in dogs.
• The majority of dogs achieve adequate control of clinical signs using basal insulin monotherapy.
• A subset of dogs requires additional bolus insulin at mealtimes for superior glycemic management.

Conclusions:

• Insulin glargine U300 and insulin degludec represent advancements in basal insulin therapy for canine diabetes.
• Basal insulin monotherapy is effective for most diabetic dogs.
• Individualized treatment plans, potentially including mealtime bolus insulin, are necessary for optimal glycemic control in some canine patients.