Review of insulin pump therapy guidance
People with type 1 diabetes need daily injections of insulin to survive. The insulin regulates their blood sugar so that they have neither too little (hypoglycaemia) nor too much (hyperglycaemia), either of which can be disabling and potentially life threatening.
But it is not always easy to get this balance right and for some people an insulin pump is the answer.
This is a small device worn outside the body that continuously delivers insulin through a very thin tube or needle inserted under the skin. The insulin can be delivered at a set rate throughout the day and increased when it is needed, for example at meal times.
In July 2008 NICE published a review of its 2003 guidance on insulin pump therapy for people with type 1 diabetes. This was in line with our policy of regularly reviewing guidance to make sure it stays up to date. In this case no change was needed.
The 2008 guidance reiterates that patients who suffer disabling hypoglycaemia with daily injections should use a pump, as should those who have consistent hyperglycaemia despite attempts at careful management. Children under 12 should use a pump only if daily injections are not practical or appropriate.
An insulin pump is not suitable for people with type 2 diabetes.
The NICE guidance means that people with type 1 diabetes will continue to be able to have access to this important technology to achieve better blood glucose control, an improved quality of life and fewer situations where they need help from others.
This page was last updated: 12 August 2009
