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Insulin
Insulin is produced by special cells in the pancreas, a large organ located behind the stomach. Insulin helps the body use and store glucose (sugar), which is produced during the digestion of food. Insulin is secreted into the blood at each meal and allows the body to use glucose as energy to fuel basic daily functions like moving and breathing. The January 10, 2007, issue of JAMA includes an article about treatment of diabetes. This Patient Page is based on one previously published in the May 7, 2003, issue of JAMA.
DIABETES
If there is not enough insulin or if the body cannot use the insulin produced, individuals develop a condition known as diabetes. Blood glucose levels can become high. If the body is unable to use glucose, it starts breaking down fats for energy. This produces waste products called ketones. High levels of ketones cause a dangerous condition called ketoacidosis that requires immediate medical attention. On the other hand, too much insulin can cause hypoglycemia (low blood sugar).
There are 2 major types of diabetes. In type 1 diabetes, the pancreas does not produce enough insulin. People with type 1 diabetes always need insulin treatment. People with type 2 diabetes have what is called insulin resistance and eventually cannot make enough insulin to meet their needs. They may start treatment by losing weight with diet and exercise or by taking pills, or they may need insulin treatment right away.
USING INSULIN
Insulin must be delivered to the bloodstream and is usually given by injection. Doctors or nurses teach patients how to inject insulin. Many individuals with diabetes inject insulin under the skin of the belly; others prefer the arm or thigh. Some patients with type 1 diabetes use an insulin "pump" that delivers insulin through a tiny tube placed under the skin.
Individuals with diabetes who need insulin must take it every day. They need insulin all the time to move glucose from the blood into the muscles where it is used, and they need enough insulin to utilize the glucose from food. The dose of insulin for meals depends on the amount of carbohydrates consumed. Blood glucose levels must be measured throughout the day by taking a small drop of blood (usually by a pinprick to the finger) and placing it in a meter that measures the blood glucose level.
There are several types of insulin, which differ based on how long it takes the insulin to start working after it is injected (onset), when the insulin is working hardest (peak), and how long the insulin lasts in the body (duration). Some individuals with diabetes use different types of insulin in various proportions and combinations depending on the time of day and timing of meals. Your doctor can help you determine the insulin types and schedule that are best for your needs.
FOR MORE INFORMATION
INFORM YOURSELF
To find this and previous JAMA Patient Pages, go to the Patient Page Index on JAMA's Web site at http://www.jama.com. A Patient Page on type 1 diabetes was published in the October 22/29, 2003, issue.
Sources: American Diabetes Association, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, American Association of Diabetes Educators
The JAMA Patient Page is a public service of JAMA. The information and recommendations appearing on this page are appropriate in most instances, but they are not a substitute for medical diagnosis. For specific information concerning your personal medical condition, JAMA suggests that you consult your physician. This page may be photocopied noncommercially by physicians and other health care professionals to share with patients. To purchase bulk reprints, call 203/259-8724.
TOPIC: DIABETES
Sharon Parmet, MS, Writer;
Cassio Lynm, MA, Illustrator;
Richard M. Glass, MD, Editor
JAMA. 2007;297:230.
RELATED ARTICLE
A 74-Year-Old Woman With Diabetes
Martin J. Abrahamson
JAMA. 2007;297(2):196-204.
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