Why Do Type 2 Diabetics Take Insulin?

In Type 2 diabetes, the body develops a resistance to insulin and eventually stops producing it. External sources of insulin become necessary to keep up with the body's demand for the hormone. If untreated, diabetes can damage vital organs such as the kidney or heart.

Function

• Insulin is a hormone responsible for delivering glucose to cells in the body. Increases in blood glucose, usually after a meal, trigger the release of insulin, which lowers blood sugar by storing it in the liver and muscles.

Significance

• In Type 2 diabetes, cells have stopped responding to insulin or the body fails to generate enough insulin to convert glucose to energy. Without insulin, glucose remains in the blood because it cannot be transported into cells to be used as energy. As a result, blood glucose rises and cells become starved for energy.

Treatment

• Pills may be taken to manage Type 2 diabetes, but eventually insulin shots will be necessary to lower blood sugar levels.

Types

• Two types are used by Type 2 diabetics. Basal insulin, which must be taken at the same time everyday, include the long-lasting Ultralente, glargine and NPH, provide a steady level of insulin. Mealtime insulin is injected 5 to 15 minutes (rapid-acting) or 30 to 60 (regular insulin) minutes before eating.

Fun Fact

• Exogenous insulin treatments are intended to mirror the activity of the pancreas.