Insulin Delivery Devices

Abstract

More than 6million Americans require daily injections of insulin. Insulin therapy, using the vial and syringe method, can be complicated and time consuming. Insulin pens were introduced in the United States in 1987 and have simplified insulin administration for many patients. Continuous Subcutaneous Insulin Infusion (insulin pumps or CSII) is being utilized to achieve and maintain tight glycemic control for personswith Diabetes Mellitus (DM). CSII therapy has existed since the 1960s. These insulin delivery devices provide improvements in flexibility, convenience, and freedom for patients-with diabetes. These devices may also help promote dosing accuracy and often improve compliance. CSII uses only rapid acting insulin, which has more reliable and predictable absorption. Gone are the days of sliding scales and feeding times to match the insulin delivery systems. This article focuses on insulin pen therapy and other alternative methods of delivering insulin including insulin pump therapy.