Practical guidance on insulin injection practice in diabetes self-management in the Indian setting: An expert consensus statement

Abstract

This consensus statement aimed to provide a simple and easily implementable practical educational guideline for healthcare professionals (HCPs) and patients regarding insulin injection practice in diabetes self-management in the Indian setting. A group of experts analysed published data from guidelines, clinical trials and real world evidence to reach consensus recommendations on optimal insulin injection practices in terms of a) the injection sites (preparation of site of injection, choosing the injection site, site rotation), b) choice of device and storage of insulins, and c) safety precautions, sharp disposal practice and complications. Findings from Global and Indian arm of 2014-2015 ITQ Study were considered to emphasize a need for improved practice by HCPs covering all the vital topics essential to proper injection habits. The consensus statement provides a simple and easily implementable practical educational guideline for HCPs and patients to optimize insulin injection practices in accordance with recent advances in device manufacturing, newer research findings, and updated international guidelines as well as widespread concerns about neglected safety precautions such as single-patient use of pens and appropriate sharp disposal practices.