About to start on Insulin?
Insulin is one of the most effective agents for lowering blood glucose. Due to the progressive nature of diabetes, many patients will be required to start treatment with this therapy when their A1c goals are not achieved with other (usually oral) agents. Despite this, insulin initiation is delayed in many patients. Recent studies show this to be a result of both patient-related, doctor-related, and medication-related factors. In one study, many patients reported that they did not believe in the clinical efficacy of insulin. They also saw insulin initiation as a “failure” or punishment. In the same study, 50%-55% of nurses and general practitioners delayed starting insulin until absolutely necessary. In a different survey, about 74% of patients reported discontinuing insulin injections, and 47% of those, said that their physician advised against using insulin.
Whatever the reasons are – alternatives to insulin are strongly needed. In addition, since the majority of Type 2 Diabetes patients suffer from other metabolic disorders, alternatives should address more than just lowering blood glucose. Discuss alternatives with your physician or contact us.