Understanding insulin management: Role of the pharmacist

Abstract

ObjectivesTo provide an overview of insulin management and related complications and describe how pharmacists can counsel and assist patients with diabetes.SummaryA survey conducted by the American Pharmacists Association in the summer of 2013 revealed that pharmacists want and need a better understanding of insulin management. Areas of needed education identified included transitioning a patient to insulin, dosing and titration, and mealtime considerations. Options for treating type 1 and type 2 diabetes are expanding, with new products and strategies for achieving success emerging in the literature. In this article, the authors bring some clarity to these issues and suggest ways that pharmacists can help their patients achieve individualized treatment goals, including educating patients about the different types of insulin; the causes of and management strategies for hypoglycemia; the benefit of good glucose control; how other medications may affect insulin use; and how to manage missed doses and problems with medication adherence.ConclusionIn the absence of a universal insulin management plan, patients must work closely with their providers in crafting individualized treatment plans, which pharmacists are ideally suited to help advise on and manage for optimal health outcomes.