Insulin Pump Therapy
Looks like a pager. Delivers insulin 24/7.
The insulin pump is an external device that releases small, precise doses of insulin in two ways: 1. A constant background (or basal) amount for normal body functions, and 2. An extra dose (or bolus) when food is eaten or glucose levels are higher than normal.
The insulin pump itself is the size of a cell phone and weighs less than three ounces. This means that it can be worn discreetly on a belt or in a pocket and may be adjusted manually when necessary. And, because it uses only fast-acting insulin, it doesn't require as rigid a schedule as daily injection therapy.
Control your treatment, don't let it control you.
Advantages:
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Imitates body's natural functions
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Improved control over conventional injection therapy
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One "injection" every 3 days
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Can skip meals and exercise more easily
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No more complicated math
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Reduced risk of hypoglycemia
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Improved insulin absorption
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Aids slow digestion (gastroparesis)
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Lightweight and discreet
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Does not require surgery
Disadvantages:
- 4-6 fingersticks per day
- Worn externally on body
- Must count carbohydrates
- Increased risk of DKA (diabetes ketoacidosis)
- Must carry back up insulin delivery system
