Why does insulin have to be injected?
Why does insulin have to be injected?
| Author: Judy Kohn, RN, BSN, CDE |
| Last Updated: Monday, February 26, 2007 |
Q: "Why does insulin have to be injected?"
A: Insulin currently cannot be taken by mouth, because it is a protein, and the gastric juices in the stomach would destroy it. So by injecting it under the skin, you are enabling the insulin to eventually get into the blood stream without having it get destroyed in the stomach. There is considerable research going on to try to resolve this problem--studies are ongoing to develop a pill form. However, inhaled insulin is now available. You can read more about it at the related link listed below.
Related Links
National Institute of Diabetes & Digestive & Kidney Diseases
(NIDDK)
http://www.niddk.nih.gov
American Diabetes Association (ADA)
http://www.diabetes.org
Eli Lilly and Company
http://www.lillydiabetes.com
sanofi-aventis U.S. LLC: "LANTUS® Insulin Glargine (rDNA origin)
Injection"
http://www.lantus.com
Novo Nordisk
http://www.diabetes4patients.com
Exubera
http://www.exubera.com
Important Notice: The responses provided by the team of Diabetes Educators are based on their personal experiences and expertise as practicing diabetes healthcare professionals, and are not to be considered diabetes management advice from Abbott Laboratories. Remember that information provided by the team of Diabetes Educators is for general background purposes and is not intended as a substitute for medical diagnosis or treatment by a trained professional. You should always consult your physician about any healthcare questions you may have, especially before trying a new medication, diet, fitness program, or approach to healthcare issues.
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