World J Diabetes. 2013 Feb 15;4(1):1-7. doi: 10.4239/wjd.v4.i1.1.
World journal of diabetes
Subhashini Yaturu
PMID: 23493823 PMCID: PMC3596776 DOI: 10.4239/wjd.v4.i1.1
Insulin is a key player in the control of hyperglycemia for type 1 diabetes patients and selective individuals in patients of type 2 diabetes. Insulin delivery systems that are currently available for the administration of insulin include insulin syringes, insulin infusion pumps, jet injectors and pens. The traditional and most predictable method for the administration of insulin is by subcutaneous injections. The major drawback of current forms of insulin therapy is their invasive nature. To decrease the suffering, the use of supersonic injectors, infusion pumps, sharp needles and pens has been adopted. Such invasive and intensive techniques have spurred the search for alternative, more acceptable methods for administering insulin. Several non-invasive approaches for insulin delivery are being pursued. The newer methods explored include the artificial pancreas with closed-loop system, transdermal insulin, and buccal, oral and pulmonary routes. This review focuses on the new concepts that are being explored for use in future.
Keywords: Diabetes; Inhaled insulin; Insulin delivery systems; Insulin therapy; Oral insulin; Transdermal insulin