An introduction to insulin use in type 2 diabetes mellitus

The benefits of the newer antidiabetic agents available for managing type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) remain indisputable, but many patients will require insulin therapy in the disease course. Given the limited access to newer antidiabetic agents, insulin remains a standard treatment modality in T2DM in South Africa. Early, multifactorial intervention remains ideal, but glucose, blood pressure and cholesterol values remain above target in many countries. Barriers to achieving glucose control in South Africa include the healthcare provider’s being unfamiliar with the practicalities of insulin administration, initiation and titration. This article highlights these gaps and offers pragmatic solutions to overcome them.