Updated March 31, 2008

Insulin Delivery Devices

by Stacy Griffin, Pharm.D., and Laura Hieronymus, M.S.Ed., A.P.R.N., B.C.-A.D.M., C.D.E.

Making your choice
The basic purpose of all insulin delivery devices is the same: to deliver the desired dose of insulin into the body to keep blood glucose levels under control. The device you choose should be one that's easy for you to use and to afford. But picking one insulin delivery device now doesn't mean you can't switch to another—or to a combination of devices—in the future. If your needs, lifestyle, or fortunes change, you may decide that a different device might work better for you in your new situation.

To learn more about your insulin delivery device options, speak to the members of your diabetes care team, look at the Web sites or call the companies that manufacture such devices, and look for articles and product reviews in reliable Web sites and magazines about diabetes such as this one. You can also check out this comparison chart. Work closely with your diabetes care team to make sure you know how to use the device you choose effectively so that you can take the best care of yourself possible.

Dr. Griffin is a diabetes educator in Lexington, Kentucky, as well as a pharmacist at Central Baptist Hospital in Lexington, Kentucky. Laura Hieronymus has more than 20 years’ experience in diabetes care and education and is a Clinical Management Liaison for Amylin Pharmaceuticals, Inc.

More articles on Insulin

Statements and opinions expressed on this Web site are those of the authors and not necessarily those of the publishers or advertisers. The information provided on this Web site should not be construed as medical instruction. Consult appropriate health-care professionals before taking action based on this information.