The Benefits Of Insulin Pump Therapy
Welcome to a comprehensive overview of the benefits of insulin pump therapy, focusing on the innovative Dana CamAPS® FX system by Advanced Therapeutics (UK) Ltd.
One Of The Many Benefits Of Insulin Pump Therapy – Glycaemic Control
The Diabetes Control and Complications Trial (DCCT) unequivocally demonstrated that intensive therapy significantly enhances glycaemic control, correlating with a marked reduction in the risk of microvascular and neurological complications (1). In this context, Continuous Subcutaneous Insulin Infusion (CSII) played a pivotal role, effectively refining glycaemic control (2).
Traditional subcutaneous insulin injections can exhibit varying rates of absorption, particularly with intermediate and long-acting insulins (3, 4). This variability can pose challenges in achieving consistent glycaemic control. CSII exclusively employs rapid-acting insulin, delivered in minute, continuous doses, minimising absorption variability (6). This results in a dependable insulin supply with reproducible post-prandial peaks, highlighting the key benefits of insulin pump therapy.
Physiological Insulin Delivery
CSII offers programmable basal rates, allowing precise adjustment to an individual’s physiological insulin requirements. Notably, the ‘dawn effect‘, characterised by increased morning glucose levels and insulin needs, presents a specific challenge. Traditional methods of countering this effect can elevate the risk of nocturnal hypoglycaemia. CSII allows for a timed, incremental increase in early morning insulin delivery, effectively mitigating the dawn effect (7, 8).
Reduction In Severe Hypoglycaemia And Hypoglycaemia Unawareness
While intensive insulin therapy may carry an increased risk of severe hypoglycaemia, studies suggest other factors may contribute to this risk (9). Multiple studies demonstrate a decrease in severe hypoglycaemic events with CSII use (10-13). Notably, the choice of insulin type in CSII can influence the counterregulatory response to hypoglycaemia (13).
There was a significant reported improvement in hypoglycaemia warning symptoms on substituting nighttime CSII (using the regular human insulin, Velosulin) for bedtime NPH insulin (14). Another recent report suggested that the use of insulin lispro improved the sensitivity of the liver to glucagon – it was proposed that increased hepatic glucose output in response to mild hypoglycaemia could potentially reduce the risk of severe hypoglycaemia (15). These findings indicate CSII as a promising option for patients facing challenges with severe hypoglycaemia or hypoglycaemia unawareness.
Another Of The Key Benefits Of Insulin Pump Therapy In Pregnancy
Optimising glycaemic control before and during pregnancy is crucial for a successful outcome (16, 17). CSII proves invaluable in normalising glucose levels during this critical period (18-20). The flexibility it offers becomes particularly significant during the first trimester, when factors like morning sickness and hypoglycaemia with diminished warning signs may impact control, further underscoring the benefits of insulin pump therapy.
Patient Lifestyle Benefits
CSII offers a level of lifestyle flexibility not easily achievable with traditional insulin injection therapy. Tailoring bolus insulin delivery independent of the basal rate allows for meal timing flexibility, accommodating changes in daily routine (21). It eliminates the need for early morning injections, enhancing control on weekends and holidays when waking times may vary. This aspect significantly contributes to the overall benefits of insulin pump therapy.
Moreover, studies have consistently reported an improved quality of life associated with CSII therapy (22-24). A survey across the USA, Germany, the Netherlands and Austria revealed that 98% of pump users reported experiencing a better or significantly improved quality of life using an insulin pump.
To Summarise
In essence, the advantages of CSII, particularly exemplified by CamAPS® FX, lie in its ability to provide precise, individualised insulin delivery. This not only optimises glycaemic control but also affords greater flexibility in lifestyle, ultimately enhancing overall well-being through the key benefits of insulin pump therapy.
Click here to see a full list of references in clinical research papers/abstracts.
What does an insulin pump offer over conventional Insulin Therapy?
Our insulin pump provides continuous basal insulin and tailored bolus insulin before meals, minimising unpredictable glucose fluctuations compared to traditional methods.
How does an insulin pump ensure a reliable insulin supply?
The pump administers basal insulin in small, frequent increments, ensuring a consistent delivery mechanism that prevents unpredictable glucose levels.
What are the benefits of an insulin pump for pregnant women and young children?
Our insulin pump adapts to changing needs during pregnancy and offers tailored solutions for children aged 1 and up, ensuring effective Type 1 diabetes management.
How does an insulin pump offer convenience in daily life?
Continuous basal insulin caters to needs between meals, and the pump allows easy configuration for additional insulin during eating, providing convenience for lie-ins and spontaneous exercise.