Advantages Of Insulin Pump Therapy

Insulin pump therapy, commonly called continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion (CSII), has increased immensely within the last decade in youth with type 1 diabetes. The giant increase can mostly be attributed to the fast acting insulin, insulin lispro. A few advantages of CSII in youth is the ability to ability to administer daily basal rates, and and the ability to use temporary basal rates. Basal insulin rates are important in controlling blood glucose levels throughout a twenty-four hour period. Basal insulin rates are also important in turning off glucose production by the liver and preventing fat breakdown. Another major advantage of CSII therapy is the ability to administer bolus insulin to control blood glucose levels after a lunch or
dinner meal, and to correct elevated blood glucose levels. CSII therapy is also involved in the reduction of hypoglycemia during and after exercise. The CSII therapy provides the ability to diminish insulin levels during heavy afternoon exercises which then provides an advantage in reducing hypoglycemia during exercise. The best form of diabetes management in youth with type 1 diabetes is a combination of CSII and CGM (continuous glucose management.)

Conclusion: Youth with type 1 diabetes have a harder time with maintaining proper blood glucose levels than adults. The CSII aids in maintaining glucose levels by diminishing insulin levels during exercise, and the ability to administer daily basal rates and temporary basal rates. Though CSII is a wonderful aid in diabetes management, it combines with continuous glucose management proves to be the best form of diabetes management.