In principle, insulin pump therapy is suitable for anyone with insulin-dependent diabetes who is capable and willing to acquire the knowledge and skills needed to implement pump therapy and utilize the pump. In practice, pump dosing is recommended for individuals for whom compensating for insulin deficiency is not possible or is very laborious with multiple-daily injections (MDI therapy) and glucose sensor.
Insulin pump therapy requirements
Ability to use MDI therapy: If insulin intake from the pump is interrupted, one must be able to implement a pre-planned backup system, i.e., MDI therapy.
Use of a glucose sensor or self-measurement of blood sugar 5-10 times a day.
Estimation the carbohydrates in meals and appropriate mealtime insulin dosing based on blood sugar, physical activity, or other actions.
Understanding and effort in learning the pump functions and utilizing its versatile possibilities.
Carefulness in handling the pump, related supplies, and insulin.
Insulin pump therapy is considered as a treatment option
If someone with insulin-dependent diabetes has:
Difficulty achieving treatment goals despite enhanced self-management guidance, individually adjusted MDI therapy, and glucose sensor or pump therapy seems to be a better quality of life option.
A significantly small need for insulin, whereby dosing and its accuracy are better achieved with an insulin pump.
Repeated problems with too low blood sugar.
A difficult-to-control dawn phenomenon, i.e., such an increase in the need for insulin in the early morning, which is difficult to treat with long-acting basal insulin.
Problems related to insulin injections.
Continuous need to change insulin doses, especially basal insulin, due to work or hobbies.