Dispelling the Myths of Insulin Therapy

By Betsy Carlisle In my position as a pharmacist and certified diabetes educator, physicians often assign me the task of starting their patients with Type 2 diabetes on insulin therapy. Unfortunately, in most situations, insulin has been presented to these patients as a last-ditch treatment option, after target glucose goals have not been achieved or maintained with lifestyle modifications and other therapies. Not surprisingly, I encounter people who are upset at the news that insulin is now necessary. Others feel anxious or overwhelmed by the prospect of fitting insulin into their lifestyles. Many people believe that insulin causes the complications of diabetes. Here is some information to dispel some of these myths about insulin therapy: Myth 1: "It's my fault I am being put on insulin because I didn't do what I was supposed to do." People with diabetes often view the switch to insulin therapy as sign of personal failure in managing their diabetes. Insulin may be perceived as a punishment for failing to exercise, eat properly, or take their medicines. However, due to the progressive nature of Type 2 diabetes, people should expect to eventually require insulin therapy — this is due to the diabetes running its natural course, not to failure on their part. It is inevitable that the insulin-producing beta cells of the pancreas will deteriorate over time, resulting in insulin deficiency. In other words, the pancreas cannot keep up with the body's need for insulin no matt...
Source: Diabetes Self-Management - Category: Diabetes Authors: Source Type: blogs