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by: Kimberlie Figg BSN, RN, CDE

Thousands of people with Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes are advancing their insulin therapy and obtaining better control of their diabetes by starting on insulin pump therapy. If you are taking 3 or more injections of insulin per day, you may be a candidate for an insulin pump.

There are many myths surrounding WHO should consider an insulin pump. Contrary to these many myths, insulin pumps are not for people with “bad” diabetes , nor is it considered to be a “last resort” when all else has failed. Insulin pump therapy does not require surgery and is very easy to learn. In fact, the best candidates for an insulin pump are those that would like to have better overall control of their diabetes, have fewer hypo and hyperglycemic excursions, and incorporate more flexibility into their lifestyle. Many studies have shown that people utilizing insulin pump therapy have lower Hba1c’s compared to those that are on multiple daily injections. And, it is well documented scientifically that in order to minimize long term complications from diabetes it is important to have your Hba1c less than or equal to 7 percent. Insulin pump therapy is a great management tool to help you achieve this important goal!

Some key advantages of using an insulin pump instead of injections are:

• Insulin pump replaces the need for multiple injections every day.
• Insulin pumps deliver insulin more accurately and more physiologically than injections do.
• Insulin pumps offer a great deal of flexibility in your lifestyle.
• Insulin pumps greatly reduce unpredictable blood sugar readings and reduce risks for hypoglycemia.
• Insulin pumps can easily calculate insulin dosages and deliver your insulin to you in just a few button pushes.

If you are interested in learning more about insulin pump therapy be sure and talk to your doctor or diabetes educator about it. Additionally, feel free to learn more by visiting Liberty’s online Insulin Pump Center at: www.libertymedical.com/healthy_living/insulin_pump_center/ 

1. American Diabetes Association online: Advantages of Using an Insulin Pump. www.diabetes.org  
2. Rudolph, JW, Hirsh, IB. Assessment of Therapy with CSII in an Academic Diabetes Clinic. Endocrine Practice 2002: 8: 401-405