Diabetes care - Insulin delivery in a changing world

Abstract

Controlling blood glucose levels within acceptable limits is crucial to the long-term health of patients with type 2 diabetes, and patient inlvolvement is a vital element in achieving this goal. The benefits of patient education and chronic disease management tools cannot be underestimated as many patients will require initiation of insulin therapy to achieve glycemic targets. The wide choice of insulin formulations and the ever-expanding range of delivery methods now available make insulin administration easier, less painful, more discreet, and more accurate than ever before, thus providing important tools to overcome barriers to insulin initiation and improve achievement of glycemic goals. In addition, exciting developments in technology for self-monitoring of blood glucose have increased the potential for optimal glycemic control. This review discusses how these approaches ran help patients manage their diabetes. © 2008 Medscape.