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Insulin Pump Therapy Vs. Injections

For approximately 24 million Americans who suffer with diabetes, the tedious routine of diabetic therapy is a medical reality that cannot be compromised. Effective diabetes treatment usually requires regular injections of insulin in order to stabilize glucose. This can be a trying process, and newer, less conventional ways to administer insulin are always welcomed by diabetics and physicians. Diabetics must select the therapy that is most suitable for them.

  1. Injections or Pump

    • Both insulin pumps and insulin injections administer insulin dosages. However, there are some significant differences. Whether you choose to continue with insulin injections or change to pump therapy, you should weigh the pros and cons of both options. Some diabetics may benefit from the added convenience of the insulin pump, while others prefer diabetic products that are more cost effective, such as standard injections. These considerations, as well as several other factors, must be evaluated when making your choice.

    Injection Therapy

    • Insulin injection have, for several decades, been the most popular way to balance blood glucose. Insulin injections require the use of clean syringes, gloves, climate-controlled insulin and self-discipline. Because injections offer simplicity and familiarity to the patient, insulin injections continue to be the therapy of choice for many. However, with so many new options available, it is imperative that much thought is given when weighing the advantages vs. the disadvantages before you make your choice. Standard injection therapy has both disadvantages and advantages. While injection therapy requires continual glucose monitoring (CGM) and it is less accurate than the pump, one of the advantages is that it is cheaper than the pump.

    Insulin Pump

    • Since the 1970s, the insulin pump has helped many individuals to live fuller lives, as it literally offers a hands-free option of glucose medication administration, more security, accuracy and precision. As a versatile, trustworthy device that is smaller than a beeper, the battery operated insulin pump offers the convenience of being able to proceed with the personal details of your life in an uninhibited way and it can be attached to nearly any limb or section of the body comfortably and safely. While a high price, the potential for weight gain and the need for outpatient training are some of the disadvantages associated with the pump option, some additional benefits include:the reduced occurrence of high/low glucose episodes, accurate and time-released medication dosing, and reduced needle usage. According to a study conducted by Diabetes.org, when insulin pump therapy is used, the A1C or average blood glucose control is improved.

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