The insulin pump is a device widely used by some people. people with diabetes. The subcutaneously applied device releases the fast-acting insulin continuously, in doses that can be varied during the day, depending on each individual's needs.

In addition, it can be coupled with interstitial blood glucose sensors (IGM) For example, automatic suspension of the insulin infusion when the patient is prone to hypoglycemia or has hypoglycemia, and even function as a pancreas artificial hybrid.

Priscilla Cukier, assistant endocrinologist at Santa Catarina Hospital, explains below when the insulin pump is indicated, its functions, and other essential information about the equipment.

See also: Diabetes: What is it, types, symptoms, treatment, and more

In which cases is the insulin pump indicated?

The insulin pump can be used by people with diabetes who are on basal-bolus insulin therapy. On the other hand, the equipment is more indicated when insulin therapies in syringes and pens are not providing control in a reliable way. According to Cukier, Cukier the good use of the insulin pump depends on good adherence to diabetes treatment, such asProper blood glucose monitoring and accurate carbohydrate counting. See other cases where the pump is recommended.

• Patients who use very low doses of insulin daily.

• People who need widely varying amounts of basal insulin throughout the day.

• Frequent episodes of hypoglycemia even with adjustment of the insulin dose.

• Busy, undefined routine that gets in the way of multiple insulin doses.

How it works

The pump is connected to the individual by means of a catheter, a part that passes the insulin into the blood. At first, the pump works with customized programming doses. For example, when the individual is doing a meal, In other words, larger amounts of insulin are released into the bloodstream at times of greatest need.

What are the health risks?

If it is working perfectly, there is no risk to your health - but as with any electronic device, it is possible that the pump may break down or the battery may run out. There may also be infusion malfunctions, such as air bubbles, cannula disconnection, or kinked cannulae. Such defects can cause blood glucose to decompensate if they are not noticed quickly.

Where to buy the insulin pump?

In Brazil, only Medtronic and Roche sell the device, whose recommendation is made by the doctor according to each person. Medtronic's device, for example, is able to monitor and calculate insulin needs according to the sensor's glucose database. The technology also makes precise modifications of fast-acting insulin to prevent ups and downs in theAnother plus point is that it automatically corrects hyperglycemia every five minutes.

For those who have doubts about how the insulin pump works, Roche offers a free course for patients. The material teaches what the main functions of the tool are, how to program and the types of doses, and other relevant information. All the content is available at youtube .

Does SUS offer the equipment?

Despite being a facilitating equipment, SUS still does not offer the resource. But a project in progress in the Senate may change that. PL 12/2022 has as its author Senator Rose de Freitas (MDB-ES), who believes that the technology helps control blood glucose, bringing more comfort to people with diabetes.

Source: Priscilla Cukier, endocrinologist at Santa Catarina Hospital, in São Paulo (SP).