Endless Pursuit: Evolution of Insulin Administration

Curr Pharm Biotechnol. 2018;19(9):742-753. doi: 10.2174/1389201019666180918112922.

Abstract

Diabetes mellitus is a chronic metabolic health condition affecting the steady state of blood sugar level. The usual method of administration is subcutaneous injection of insulin. There are several ways to subcutaneously inject insulin, such as syringes, insulin pens, and insulin pumps. However, subcutaneous injections of insulin can lead to discomfort, pain and local infection. This review focuses on traditional methods of insulin administration, non-invasive approaches, and new insulin therapy technologies, and the advantages and disadvantages of these approaches, as well as future development prospects are also discussed.

Keywords: Drug delivery systems; diabetes mellitus; insulin administration; insulin delivery; oral insulin; review..

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Diabetes Mellitus / drug therapy*
  • Drug Delivery Systems / methods*
  • Humans
  • Hypoglycemic Agents / administration & dosage*
  • Injections, Subcutaneous
  • Insulin / administration & dosage*

Substances

  • Hypoglycemic Agents
  • Insulin