Insulin Pump Benefits for People with Type 2 Diabetes

Managing diabetes can feel like a full-time job, but insulin pumps are here to make life a little easier. While many people still use multiple daily injections (MDI), insulin pumps offer a different way to manage your insulin needs that can make a big difference.

What are insulin pumps?

Traditional insulin pumps These are small, computerized devices that deliver insulin through a tiny tube under your skin. You can program them to meet your specific insulin needs throughout the day and at mealtimes.

Disposable patch pumps Patch pumps stick to your skin like a patch and don’t require any injections. Some give insulin all day (basal insulin) and at mealtimes (bolus insulin). Options include one-day (V-Go (by Zealand Pharma))or three-day wearable patches (Omnipod DASH and Omnipod 5 (by Insulet)).

Basal vs. bolus insulin

Insulin pumps work like a pancreas by delivering two types of insulin:

• Basal Insulin: This is the small, steady dose your body needs all the time to manage blood sugar between meals and overnight.
• Bolus Insulin: This is a larger dose taken during meals or to lower high blood sugar.

It’s still important to check your blood sugar regularly, either with a continuous glucose monitor (CGM) or a blood glucose meter.

Why consider a pump for type 2 diabetes?

If you have type 2 diabetes and need insulin, a pump can simplify your routine. Pumps are especially helpful for two common reasons people need insulin:

• Insulin resistance: This happens when your body doesn’t respond well to insulin. Pumps can help deliver the insulin your body needs to manage blood sugar.
• Beta-cell dysfunction: Over time, your body may produce less insulin. A pump can help replace the insulin your body isn’t making.

Some popular options include tubed pumps and tubeless patch pumps like the Omnipod. Both are effective tools for managing diabetes.

Benefits of using a pump

• Pumps mimic how your pancreas works, giving insulin as needed throughout the day and during meals.
• Many people see improved A1C results compared to injections.
• Pumps can alert you to low blood sugar, lowering the risk of severe lows.
• They make carb counting easier by automatically calculating how much insulin you need.
• Pumps are discreet and easier to use in public than injections.

Challenges to consider

• Cost: Pumps can be expensive, and insurance coverage varies. Some plans help cover costs, but you may still have out-of-pocket expenses.
• Training: Learning to use a pump takes time and help from your healthcare team. You’ll need to learn how to adjust your settings and change the pump site every few days.
• Device issues: Like any machine, pumps can malfunction. You still need to monitor your blood sugar to avoid serious issues like diabetic ketoacidosis.

Is an insulin pump right for you?

Pumps aren’t one-size-fits-all, but they give many people more flexibility and fewer daily injections. Talk to your doctor to see if an insulin pump is a good option for your diabetes care.