Why Insulin?

If you have type 2 diabetes, your treatment plan might include lifestyle changes – such as healthy eating and exercise. Your doctor may also have prescribed oral diabetes medications. So, you might think insulin is a last resort. You might assume it is something to be avoided.

Insulin may be a valuable tool for blood sugar control when used as part of an overall diabetes treatment plan. On the following pages, you can read a wealth of information about insulin:

• Insulin, Glucose and Diabetes – What is insulin and what does it do? Find out the link between insulin, blood sugar (glucose) and diabetes.
• Oral Diabetes Medications – Are you not getting the blood sugar control you need? Learn why insulin used with oral diabetes medication can help control your blood sugar levels.
• ADA Treatment Guidelines – When should you start using insulin? Where should your blood sugar levels be? Learn what the American Diabetes Association suggests in this patient summary. Find out why insulin added earlier in your treatment may help achieve those goals.
• The A1C Test – What does it mean if your A1C score is over 7%? Find out how the A1C test works and what it means for your treatment.

Insulin isn't a last resort. It isn't a sign of failure. It's a tool to help you manage your blood sugar levels. Get the facts and ask your doctor if insulin would be right for you.