Challenges associated with insulin therapy in type 2 diabetes mellitus

• S. Edelman
• J. Pettus

Abstract

Despite advances in treatment for type 2 diabetes in recent decades, many patients are failing to achieve adequate glycemic control. Poor glycemic control has been shown to have a detrimental effect on patients’ health and well-being, and to have significant negative financial implications for both patients and healthcare systems. Insulin therapy has been proven to significantly reduce glycated hemoglobin levels; however, both patients and physicians can be reluctant to initiate insulin therapy. Research shows that both patient and provider factors contribute to a delay in initiation of insulin therapy. This review discusses the most common barriers contributing to this delay with potential solutions to overcome them.

Keywords:adherence, barriers, hypoglycemia, insulin, type 2 diabetes