Description

What Is Insulin?

Insulin is a hormone that is central to blood glucose management. The body either does not make enough insulin or does not use it properly, so glucose can stay in the blood. This can cause blood sugar levels to get too high.

People with type 1 diabetes usually require insulin daily because their bodies don’t produce much or any insulin. Some people with type 2 diabetes may also need insulin if other treatments aren’t enough to control their blood glucose.

Insulin, What Is It?

Insulin helps glucose leave the blood stream and get into cells. The cells then use glucose as energy source. Insulin also regulates how much glucose the liver releases into the blood.

Insulin therapy can therefore help people with diabetes to maintain blood glucose within the range recommended by their health care professional .

Insulin Types

Doctors may prescribe different kinds of insulin depending on how fast they work and how long they last. Standard categories are:

• Short-acting insulin
• Regular or short-acting insulin
• Intermediate acting insulin
• Insulin (long-acting)
• Insulin premixed

Some may use more than one kind. But the right insulin and treatment plan depends on your individual medical needs.

What is insulin used for?

Insulin is normally given with an insulin syringe, pen or pump. Some forms are also available in inhaled insulin. Patients should adhere to the treatment plan prescribed by their healthcare professional as different insulin products have different strengths and properties.

Above all, do not change your insulin dose or switch insulin products without professional guidance. Insulin misuse can cause blood glucose levels to become dangerously low or high.

Advantages of Insulin Treatment

Insulin-dependent people can take treatment to help control high blood glucose. Better management of glucose levels can also help reduce the risk for diabetes-related complications. These complications can affect the heart, kidneys, nerves, eyes and other parts of the body.

Also, eating healthy, regular physical activity, glucose monitoring and proper medical care can help manage diabetes.

Insulin and Low Blood Sugar

Insulin therapy has a major problem called hypoglycaemia or low blood sugar. Low blood glucose can get serious if it goes too low. Thus, individuals who use insulin should be taught how to recognise and treat low blood sugar as directed by their health care provider.

FAQs

What is Insulin for?

Insulin is used to control blood glucose in people who require insulin therapy, especially those with type 1 diabetes and some people with type 2 diabetes.

Can I take insulin if I have type 2 diabetes?

Yes. Sometimes people with type 2 diabetes need insulin when lifestyle changes and other medicines do not control blood glucose levels well enough.

Can I adjust my own insulin dose?

No. Always stick to your prescribed treatment plan and speak to your healthcare professional before changing your dose or insulin product.

Overall

Insulin is very important to control blood glucose and to use glucose for energy in the body. There are several kinds of insulin that work at different speeds and for different durations. So, healthcare professionals choose insulin based on the needs of each patient.