Common Problems Encountered in Insulin Management course for GPs

This session describes the physiological basis of insulin replacement and the commonly used insulin regimens. Practical issues in insulin management are illustrated in case histories and the significance of insulin therapy in relation to driving is reviewed.

This session was reviewed by Khyati Bakhai and last updated in June 2019.

Learning Objectives

By the end of this session you will be able to:

• Describe normal insulin physiology including understanding basal and prandial insulin secretion
• List common insulin regimens including bedtime basal insulin, twice daily pre-mixed and basal bolus regimens
• List commonly used injection devices, how to titrate insulin doses and the significance of rotating injection sites
• Describe what to advise people taking insulin during intercurrent illness
• List DVLA regulations in relation to insulin therapy

Type 2 diabetes is a progressive disease caused by the abnormal inter-relationship between insulin resistance and progressively diminishing beta cell function.