Centenary of Insulin Therapy: A Review

Area of Science:

• Endocrinology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Insulin, an endocrine hormone from pancreatic beta cells, regulates blood glucose and anabolic processes.
• Insulin therapy, established for a century, continuously evolves to mitigate hypoglycemia and weight gain.
• Advancements in insulin formulations and delivery devices aim to enhance patient outcomes and safety.

Approach:

• This article provides a comprehensive review of insulin's background, mechanism, types, and administration.
• It examines needle size, injection techniques, and adverse drug reactions associated with insulin therapy.
• The review synthesizes findings from various studies on insulin efficacy and safety.

Key Points:

• Insulin pens demonstrate comparable efficacy and safety to traditional vial/syringe methods.
• Patient preference leans towards insulin pens for convenience and potentially reduced hypoglycemia.
• Intensive insulin treatment is crucial for achieving optimal metabolic control in type-1 and type-2 diabetes.

Conclusions:

• Healthcare professionals should guide patients on safe insulin use and self-management for improved quality of life.
• Addressing concerns regarding inpatient glycemic control and insulin administration is vital.
• Future advancements in insulin therapy will likely accelerate through technological innovation and scientific collaboration.