Injected Insulin and Insulin Adjuncts for People with Diabetes

Injected insulin and insulin adjuncts are commonly used to treat people with diabetes who are unable to control their blood glucose levels through diet, exercise, and oral medications. Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas that helps regulate blood glucose levels. In people with diabetes, the pancreas either does not produce enough insulin (type 1 diabetes) or the body is unable to use the insulin it produces effectively (type 2 diabetes).

Injected insulin is available in various forms, including rapid-acting, short-acting, intermediate-acting, and long-acting. These types of insulin are designed to be used at different times throughout the day to help manage blood glucose levels.

Insulin adjuncts are medications that work in combination with insulin to improve blood glucose control. These medications include amylin analogs, GLP-1 receptor agonists, and SGLT2 inhibitors.

Amylin analogs, such as pramlintide, work by slowing the rate at which food moves through the stomach and into the small intestine. This slows the rise in blood glucose levels after meals, helping to prevent spikes in blood glucose levels. Amylin analogs are usually given as an injection before meals.

GLP-1 receptor agonists, such as exenatide and liraglutide, stimulate the release of insulin from the pancreas in response to high blood glucose levels. They also slow the rate at which food moves through the stomach, which can help to prevent spikes in blood glucose levels after meals. GLP-1 receptor agonists are usually given as a subcutaneous injection once or twice daily.

SGLT2 inhibitors, such as canagliflozin and dapagliflozin, work by blocking the reabsorption of glucose by the kidneys, causing glucose to be excreted in the urine. This helps to lower blood glucose levels. SGLT2 inhibitors are usually taken orally once daily.

It is important for people with diabetes to work closely with their healthcare provider to determine the best treatment plan for their individual needs, which may include a combination of injected insulin and insulin adjuncts. Regular monitoring of blood glucose levels and communication with healthcare providers can help to ensure that treatment goals are being met and any necessary adjustments to treatment can be made.