The structure of IGF-I is similar to that of insulin, having 43% sequence homology with human proinsulin. Both peptides can induce metabolic and mitogenic effects through their own specific receptors, which also share many structural and functional similarities. Primarily involved in the regulation of growth, IGF-I may have a role in the control of glucose homeostasis, facilitated by changes in its binding proteins. RhIGF-I can reduce hyperglycaemia in patients with severe insulin resistance by direct effects mediated via the IGF-I receptor. Improvements in insulin sensitivity, and reductions in blood glucose levels and HbA1c values have also been seen in subjects with NIDDM. Enhanced insulin sensitivity with low dose rhIGF-I has been observed in adolescents and young adults with IDDM. These effects are closely related to reductions in growth hormone levels, but there is also evidence of complex interactions with insulin at the post receptor level and with IGFBP-1. In recent randomised, double-blind, placebo controlled trials, rhIGF-I given as an adjunct to insulin therapy reduced to HbA1c values. Although the ideal dosage to obtain therapeutic efficacy without complications has yet to be determined, rhIGF-I may have an important role in the treatment of hyperglycaemia and insulin resistance in diabetes.