Optimising insulin therapy

Good glycaemic control in people with type-2 diabetes reduces the risk of microvascular complications and may also result in fewer macrovascular events.^1,2 Insulin is the most effective treatment in reducing hyper-glycaemia.³

The progressive nature of type-2 diabetes is characterised by a decline in beta cell function and worsening of insulin resistance. This means that a large proportion of people with type-2 diabetes go on to require insulin therapy. Within six years of starting treatment about half of patients treated with sulphonylureas will require additional insulin therapy.¹

This article outlines how to achieve good glycaemic control by starting patients on insulin therapy in a timely and efficacious manner.