Diabetes and insulin delivery devices

Insulin delivery devices are designed to administer insulin through the skin and into the absorbent subcutaneous fatty tissue below. There are several different types of delivery device available, including syringes, pens, jet injectors and pumps. Furthermore, insulin that can be inhaled and other new approached to insulin treatment are at different stages of availability and development throughout the world. This section of diabetes.co.uk is a brief introduction to the different types of insulin delivery device.

Insulin syringes

Syringes are standard hypodermic needles attached to hollow barrels containing insulin. The syringes employed by diabetics are extremely small, and well lubricated in order to make the injection process as painless as possible. Syringes for insulin come in many different sizes, intended to match the dosage and strength of the different insulin types.

Insulin pens

Insulin pens contain cartridges filled with insulin, and are used instead of needles to administer insulin to diabetes sufferers. Pens come in two different forms: with replaceable cartridges or with pre-filled cartridges that are then disposed of after use. An extremely short and sharp needle may be attached to the end of the pen to deliver the insulin under the skin.

Insulin Jet injectors

For people who do not wish to use needles at all, insulin jet injectors are available in some countries. Insulin jet injectors use air under high-pressure to send an extremely fine spray of insulin through the skin.

Insulin Pumps

Insulin pumps are miniature-pumping devices that are worn outside of the body. They are connected to a catheter located under the skin in the abdomen, and are programmed to deliver insulin according to your daily regime. Pumps are generally set to deliver steady small doses of insulin, with peaks after meal times. Insulin pumps, when used correctly, allow for close control of insulin levels without the need for multiple injections. Monitoring blood glucose levels is still necessary when using a pump.

Other insulin delivery types

Insulin is changing rapidly (see oral insulin), and inhaleable insulin is now very much a reality. Several pioneering companies have had oral insulin approved for use. Other methods include the insulin patch. The time will come when diabetics can manage their condition without having to resort to needles.