Capacity and confidence building for general practitioners on optimum insulin use

Abstract

Type 2 diabetes is characterised by a progressive decline in insulin secretion, and sooner or later patients require insulin therapy. However, physicians are reluctant to initiate insulin therapy because of perceived inadequacy in managing insulin therapy, cost and lack of benefits. Experts from across the country met at a workshop during 12th National Insulin Summit which was held in September at Hyderabad and came up with key recommendations to build capacity and confidence in general practitioners for insulin usage. Barriers can be overcome through self-education and training; effective patient education; imparting coping skill training to patients; and bridging gaps to improve adherence. Moreover, optimum insulinization requires knowledge about the available options for initiation and intensification of insulin therapy; various insulin regimens; dosing and titration; and choosing effective and simple insulin therapy as per patient characteristics. Hence, the objective of this review article is to help build capacity and confidence among general practitioners on optimising insulin therapy.

Real-World Observational Study of Glimepiride and Metformin Fixed-Dose Combination Along With Insulin in the Management of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: Indian Experience

“…The American Diabetes Association endorses the addition of insulin to metformin therapy and recommends consideration of the early introduction of insulin [5][6]. Nevertheless, most of the physicians are hesitant to initiate and intensify insulin therapy due to the side effects [7]. A combination of insulin with sulfonylurea works well, resulting in improved glucose levels, less weight gain, and tapered insulin dose.…”