Insulin Pumps: The Basics
Insulin pumps — devices that can mimic the insulin delivery of a normal, healthy pancreas — were developed in the late 1970s. An insulin pump delivers insulin under the skin in two different doses: a low background dose given every few minutes to fulfill the body’s general insulin needs and a larger dose given to deal with meals and snacks. The pump holds a reservoir of insulin and uses a needle or a plastic infusion catheter to deliver the insulin. The needle or catheter needs to be replaced every few days. Why use an insulin pump? Diabetics who use an … Continue reading