The objective of this article is to review the different types of insulin and to explain some of the different dosing regimens that are used. Articles were obtained via a MEDLINE search and product package inserts. There is no one insulin therapy that is best for all patients. Type 1 diabetes patients require insulin therapy tomaintain life. Studies support intensive insulindosing in these patients to obtain an A1C of less than 7.0%. Insulin therapy for type 2 diabetes patients may be a little less clear. Long-acting insulin in combination with an oral agentmay be just as effective as insulin alone, and in patients who fail oral therapy, a simple insulin regimen is preferred over a complex one.
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