Insulin

Uchechi Wosu MD

Content Contributor

Evolution of Insulin

Insulin was discovered in 1921 and it was not until 1982 when the first commercially available biosynthetic human insulin was sold. For many years insulin was self-administered from a vial. Patients would use a 28 to 31 gauge needle to place on a syringe and draw up a designated amount of insulin. Insulin would then be injected into their abdomen, upper arm, buttocks, hip, or thigh. They would discard the needle after use. By 1985, the insulin pen was created and patients would insert a 4-12.7mm pen needle on the pen and dial up the correct amount of insulin to be given in their abdomen. A needle was still needed but the vehicle insulin came in was more user-friendly, easier to handle, and more convenient. However, it did not solve the problem for patients who sought an option other than using needles.

Technology Spotlight

Afrezza Inhaler

The only rapid-acting inhaled insulin, Afrezza, has given insulin-dependent diabetics another option to injections. It allows easy access and administration of the medicine several times a day as needed. Patients would use one of three color-coded strengths and open the mouthpiece to the vertical position and insert the cartridge. The patient would close the mouthpiece, remove the mouthpiece cover and after full exhalation, seal their lips tight around the device and inhale.

Type I and Type II diabetics, who prefer less invasive means of insulin administration and who do not have any contraindications to inhaled medications, now have another option.