What is insulin therapy?

Insulin therapy refers specifically to the administration of insulin through injections or the use of insulin pumps to help individuals with diabetes manage their blood glucose levels. When a person's body cannot produce enough insulin or is resistant to its effects, insulin therapy becomes essential in maintaining normal glucose levels. This allows individuals to prevent complications related to diabetes such as hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia.

Insulin therapy is a critical component of treatment for Type 1 diabetes, where the pancreas produces little to no insulin, and also for some individuals with Type 2 diabetes who may need additional help beyond oral medications. The form of insulin used can vary in terms of how swiftly it acts and how long its effects last, which can be tailored to the individual's needs to achieve optimal blood sugar control.

In contrast, dietary modifications, physical exercise, and herbal supplements, while they can play important roles in diabetes management, do not involve the direct administration of insulin and, hence, are not classified as insulin therapy.