Peer Reviewed
Drug update
Insulin pump therapy
Abstract
It is becoming more common for patients with type 1 diabetes to present with a request to go on an insulin pump. Here is an overview of insulin pumps and the capabilities of the latest models.
Key Points
Insulin pump therapy is becoming increasingly popular in patients with type 1 diabetes. Continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion pumps have been evolving over the past 20 years, becoming progressively smaller in size and more complex in function. In the last five to 10 years, insulin pump therapy has become an important treatment option for patients with brittle type 1 diabetes and for those wanting more flexibility in the treatment of their diabetes. It should, however, be considered only after a trial of multiple daily injections (MDI) therapy with a long-acting insulin analogue (detemir [Levemir], glargine [Lantus]).
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