Review of Pharmacology of Insulin and Guidelines for its Administration

Abstract

The quest for insulin that could mimic the physiologic insulin continues to rise. This has led to the expansion of insulin therapy option for type 1 diabetes in particular. On this premise this paper presents the pharmacology and guidelines for insulin therapy for health care providers, particularly nurses. The pharmacology, sources, properties, preparation, storage, adverse effects of insulins are critically reviewed in this paper. The comparison among the various insulin types and their merits/demerits are clearly highlighted. Moreover, factors influencing its absorption and conditions that determine the mixing of insulin types are considered in detail as well. This paper has been able to provide useful information capable of equipping healthcare providers, particularly nurses with valid knowledge of insulin therapy, its pharmacologic properties, its administration and relevant nursing implications. The teaching-role of nurses regarding insulin therapy will be of great benefit to patients living with diabetes.