Having to take insulin means I have failed and that my diabetes is getting worse.

No, you haven't failed at all. Diabetes is a disease that gets harder to manage over time. Adding insulin isn't a sign of failure. It replaces what your body isn't making naturally to help control blood sugar. If diet, exercise, and oral diabetes medications are not bringing your blood sugar levels under control, insulin may help. It may be an important tool in gaining blood sugar control, which is important to your overall health.

Insulin should be considered as a last option for treating diabetes.

Insulin does not have to be the last option you and your doctor consider. Your guide should be your A1C level. The American Diabetes Association (ADA) suggests your level should be less than 7%. If it is above that – or above the goal your doctor set for you – ask your doctor about insulin.

Taking insulin can be as routine as brushing your teeth.

Many people fear that taking insulin will interfere with their daily schedules. But patients on insulin often say that their routines have not changed much since starting insulin.

Taking insulin injections will be painful.

Many patients are surprised when they see how small and thin the needle is. Also, many insulins come in small, easy-to-use insulin pens that make taking insulin more convenient.

Insulin may be started at any time to help control your blood sugar.

Insulin does not mean that you are "at the end of the road." In fact, the ADA treatment guidelines suggest you add insulin earlier if diet, exercise, and pills alone do not offer enough blood sugar control. Insulin does not have to be the last option.

Insulin will make me gain a lot of weight.

The benefit of helping to manage your blood sugar with insulin outweighs the risk of some weight gain. Some people find that they do put on a few pounds when they begin taking insulin. But following a meal plan and exercise program may help. Taking insulin turns calories into energy for your body. Because lost calories are absorbed by your body, some weight gain is possible.

Insulin is dangerous.

Like any medicine, insulin may have side effects such as low blood sugar. So ask your doctor how to take it. Proper use of insulin may help reduce the risk of side effects.

Insulin doesn't cure diabetes.

Taking insulin may help manage blood sugar levels. But it does not cure the disease. While progress toward finding a cure has been substantial, there is still no cure for diabetes.

Insulin always needs to be refrigerated.

Insulin does not always need to be refrigerated. Many people store open bottles at room temperature because they find it more comfortable to inject. Opened and unopened insulin can be stored at room temperature for up to 28 days. Some for up to 42 days! Refrigerated, unopened bottles are good until the expiration date printed on them. Always read the instructions that come with your insulin.

Once I start taking insulin I will get addicted to it and will have to take it for the rest of my life.

Insulin is not physically addictive or habit-forming. Some patients choose to take insulin to help manage their blood sugar. This does not mean they are addicted. They are replacing something the body once made naturally.