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Low-dose intravenous insulin infusion versus subcutaneous insulin injection: a controlled comparative study of
Insights
Continuous intravenous insulin infusion and standard subcutaneous injections are equally effective for managing diabetic ketoacidosis in children. Low-dose continuous infusion offers simpler, more controlled diabetes management.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Endocrinology
- Metabolic Disorders
- Diabetes Management
Background:
- Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is a serious complication of diabetes.
- Current management often involves subcutaneous insulin injections.
- Alternative insulin delivery methods for DKA require further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the efficacy of continuous intravenous insulin infusion versus subcutaneous insulin in treating uncomplicated diabetic ketoacidosis in pediatric patients.
- To evaluate the safety and management simplicity of both insulin administration regimens.
Main Methods:
- Prospective randomized study of 14 pediatric patients (5-17 years old) with 18 episodes of uncomplicated DKA.
- Study group received continuous intravenous insulin infusion (0.1 units/kg/hour).
- Control group received standard subcutaneous insulin injections.
Main Results:
- Both intravenous and subcutaneous insulin regimens effectively reduced serum glucose and ketone levels.
- Serum ketones persisted longer in the intravenous insulin group.
- No complications were observed in either treatment group.
Conclusions:
- Continuous intravenous insulin infusion and subcutaneous insulin administration are equally effective for managing pediatric diabetic ketoacidosis.
- Low-dose continuous intravenous insulin infusion may offer a more simplified and controlled management approach compared to standard subcutaneous regimens.
Abstract:
Fourteen paients, 5 to 17 years old, with 18 episodes of uncomplicated diabetic ketoacidosis were randomly allocated and studied prospectively. The study group received 0.1 units of insulin per kilogram of body weight per hour as a continuous intravenous infusion; the control group received insulin subcutaneously. In both groups, a gradual fall in serum glucose and ketone levels was achieved. Serum ketones persisted longer in the intravenous group. No complications were encountered. The study suggests that both regimens of insulin administration are equally effective, but a low-dose constant infusion may provide more simplified and controlled management than the standard subcutaneous regimen.