To manage diabetes successfully, it is essential to maintain constant control of blood sugar levels. Insulin therapy plays a vital role in this. There are two main methods of administering insulin to those suffering from diabetes: infusions and injections. Both options have advantages, and knowing the differences between them can help people make informed choices about their diabetes treatment.

In this article, we’ll discuss the major differences between insulin infusion vs injection, as well as how Continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) can help improve the management of diabetes.

Insulin Delivery Methods 

Insulin is required to manage the blood sugar levels of people who suffer from diabetes. Insulin is delivered via injections or pumps, both of which have their advantages. Both methods direct insulin into the bloodstream. However, they differ in the way and when insulin is administered.

• Insulin injections: The method uses syringes, an insulin pen, or auto-injectors that inject insulin directly into your body. Typically, it is injected into the fatty tissue under the skin. The injections are administered frequently throughout the day to control the blood sugar level.
• Insulin Infusion: Infusion of insulin is given through the insulin pump. The pump is a small computerised device that constantly injects insulin via a tiny catheter that is placed under the skin. It ensures a constant and controlled flow of insulin as opposed to injections.

Diabetes Insulin Pumps

An insulin pump can be described as a tiny device that provides daily doses of insulin through an intravenous catheter. The pump can release regular, small doses of insulin that mimic the body’s natural production of insulin. This insulin pump can be perfect for those who require regular changes to insulin dosages. There are many options like Medtronic 780G Insulin Pump, Tandem Mobi Insulin Pump, Insulin Pump – T: Slim X2 Control-IQ, MiniMed Medtronic 630g Insulin Pump

Continuous Insulin Infusion

Continuous insulin injection (CII) can be described as a procedure in which the insulin pump provides an ongoing flow of insulin to the body. Continuous delivery aids in maintaining the blood sugar level stably and minimises the requirement for daily injections. CII mimics the release of insulin by the pancreas and provides greater control over blood sugar levels.

Injection vs Insulin Pump

The major difference between insulin injections and insulin pumps is how they deliver. Injections of insulin require people to administer insulin several times every day throughout the week, while the insulin pump continuously provides insulin. Here are some important points to look at:

• Convenience: The injection of insulin can be a burden, requiring multiple daily doses. However, insulin pumps allow continuous delivery, which reduces the number of injections.
• Control: Insulin pumps permit more fine-tuned control over the delivery of insulin and can provide insulin according to individual requirements during the day. Contrary to injections, they need more adjustments manually and offer less flexibility.

Benefits of Insulin Infusion

Infusions of insulin, specifically by insulin pumps, offer numerous advantages.

• Continuous Delivery: Infusion pumps deliver insulin continuously, which helps to prevent changes in blood sugar that may be caused by numerous injections.
• Reducing Injections: With insulin pumps, people generally don’t need to administer multiple daily injections. This makes diabetes management easier and less invasive.
• Customised Dosing: Insulin pumps permit users to customise the insulin dose to suit the specific requirements of their needs, which includes changing the dose for food, exercise and stress levels. This degree of control could result in better blood sugar control.

 

Insulin Injection Alternatives

For those who might not be suitable for the insulin pump, there are alternative options for traditional insulin injections

• Insulin pen: These are pre-filled pens that allow you to give a precise amount of insulin. They are much more practical than syringes and can be used to administer rapid-acting and long-acting insulin.
• Insulin Inhalers: This option involves the inhalation of insulin in powder form. It is generally used to deliver insulin quickly and is a viable alternative for those who would rather not inject insulin.

CGM with Insulin Injection

Continuous Glucose Monitor (CGM) tracks the level of blood sugar in real time and can be used in conjunction with pumps or injections of insulin to offer more precise control of diabetes. The CGM constantly sends glucose levels to smartphones or devices that allow individuals to monitor their blood sugar levels and make prompt modifications to insulin dosage. A combination of CGM with insulin therapy offers an informed and proactive treatment for diabetes.

Insulin Therapy Options

There are a variety of insulin therapy options available, including pumps and injections. Each has advantages:

• For injections: Ideal for those who are looking for simplicity and don’t want the added burden of carrying the insulin pump. Injections are administered on the basis of a schedule that allows greater control over mealtime dosing.
• To be used with insulin pumps: Perfect for those who require constant insulin delivery, flexibility, and greater control over blood sugar. Pumps are particularly beneficial for those who require precision and regular modifications to their diabetes regimen.

Insulin Pump Pros and Cons

Insulin pumps are extremely flexible and controllable; however, there are advantages and disadvantages to take into consideration:

Pros:

• Continuous Insulin Supply: Pumps provide the continuous delivery of insulin and prevent the fluctuation of glucose levels in the blood.
• Customisation: The dose of insulin can be controlled and programmed according to individual requirements.
• Convenience: A lesser number of injections are needed, which could reduce the discomfort and stress of having multiple shots daily.

Cons:

• Cost: Pumps for Insulin are expensive, and not every insurance plan will cover the expense, except for Deliver My Meds.
• Maintenance: Pumps must be maintained and filled, and require regular maintenance.
• Learn Curve: Operating an insulin pump efficiently requires training and experience.

Conclusion

The decision between insulin injections and infusion pumps is based on your personal preferences as well as lifestyle and medical requirements. Although injections are easy and efficient, insulin pumps can provide constant, flexible insulin delivery, allowing greater control of blood sugar. Combining treatment with insulin and the use of a CGM, people can enhance the management of diabetes, decreasing the risk of complications and increasing their overall health. It is essential to collaborate with a medical professional to decide on the most effective treatment for the specific needs of each patient.