Living with Diabetes

• Insulin pumps replace the need for periodic injections by delivering rapid-acting insulin continuously throughout the day using a catheter.
• They offer many advantages that can simplify diabetes management.
• There are some downsides, but most pump users agree that the benefits are worth it.
• Switching to a pump requires some adjustment, so discuss the options with your health care team before making a decision.

By using an insulin pump, you can match your insulin to your lifestyle rather than adjusting your lifestyle to your body's response to insulin injections. With help from your health care team, insulin pumps can help you keep your blood glucose levels within your target ranges both day and night. People of all ages with type 1 diabetes use insulin pumps, and people with type 2 diabetes have started to use them as well.

For More Information

• Advantages of Using an Insulin Pump
• Disadvantages of Using an Insulin Pump
• Getting Started with an Insulin Pump
• See the 2013 Consumer Guide to insulin pumps