2007-10-22 09:33:40 · 10 answers · asked by Anonymous in Health ➔ Diseases & Conditions ➔ Diabetes
No, you can't take insulin orally -- the stomach breaks it down before it can work. Have you considered the insulin pump? No more shots, just an IV site change every 3 days.
2007-10-22 09:40:34 · answer #1 · answered by Chris H 3 · 4⤊ 1⤋
No.
Insulin must be taken by injection or by using an insulin pump. While there is an inhalable insulin now available (Exubera), it is not being used to treat type 1 diabetes. At this time, it's only for type 2 diabetes, along with oral medications (not an option for type 1s).
When it comes to insulin injections, there really isn't anything to be afraid of. The needles that are used on insulin syringes are really tiny...30 gauge. When you see one, you will understand what I mean. The injection using this size needle is virtually painless. It might sting a little but that's the worst of it. I had to take shots for years...4-6 times a day. I now use an insulin pump.
You can get some syringes to practice with. A peach works nicely because they are similar to human skin. Also, a diabetic educator can show you how to give yourself shots. Over time, it will become effortless.
EMT
I stand corrected. Exubera is being taken off the market, according to CNN.
2007-10-22 11:07:17 · answer #2 · answered by emt_me911 7 · 0⤊ 1⤋
You cannot eat insulin as it breaks down and will be digested before it gets to you.
Just to clarify : An insulin pump is a great idea but it is NOT IV.It goes right under your skin like a shot and stays in place for three or so days and then must be changed out.
With type 1 diabetes you cannot utilize oral diabetes meds.You will have to be on insulin.I know how hard it is.I'd even like one day off.But we can't do that.
I wish you the best.
Try joining a support group and a diabetes ed class.They would have answered this question for you.
2007-10-22 13:26:59 · answer #3 · answered by Cammie 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
No....U cannot take insulin by mouth. But if you are over the age of 18, there is this new thing called Exubera where it looks like an asthma pump and you inhale it but the only thing is that if you are a type 1 diabetic you will still have to take a longer-acting insulin by shot. There is also the minimed medtronic pump where it looks like a beeper and you only need to give yourself a shot every two-three days (depending on how much insulin you need). Trust me I wish you could take insulin by mouth because Im a diabetic also, so i know how you feel.
2007-10-22 10:39:23 · answer #4 · answered by Jess 2 · 0⤊ 1⤋
Nope, digestive juices will destroy the insulin and body can use it. The shots are not that bad. You have to have the right mindset for them. Just remember, the shots help keep you alive and well. Or check with your doctor to see if you can get a pump. Only have to change needles every 3 days or so. Not as bad as daily shots. Honey, I feel like a pin cushion some days but I just keep sticking away and getting on with my life. A little stick is the least of my worries.
2007-10-22 13:49:57 · answer #5 · answered by db2byl 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Sorry, no such luck. Insulin is digested by the intestinal system. You should consider the pump. It's basically like giving yourself 1 shot every 3 days or so. The needle is slightly bigger (because it is an introducer and must accomodate the cannula), but it's no more painful than a regular shot (usually). Contrary to popular belief, it is NOT an IV site; rather the cannula sits in the hypodermic fat, just like the needle for a shot.
2007-10-22 09:51:50 · answer #6 · answered by J 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Since Exubra has been removed from the market you have no choice! A pump would be nice, but you have to prove to the doctor you are adult enough to be responsible to take your meds as ordered.
Come on, Now!! I hate the shots too and I am a grandma!! But I do them to live and keep my toes, fingers and eyes! I also hate pricking my fingers to see where my glucose levels are!
2007-10-22 11:52:35 · answer #7 · answered by Nana Lamb 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Why not just get over it. The shots don't hurt and sometimes I have to look to be sure the needle is in. And yes, they burn like h*ll every once in awhile but it beats the alternative. It's a mind game, play a different one with yourself and it won't bother you.
2007-10-22 09:49:24 · answer #8 · answered by towanda 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Just in case you did not know this.
Inhaled Insulin Exubera Halted
http://health.webmd.com/cgi-bin21/DM/y/evTx0MgUcO0JQ50BAtg0EY
The drug company Pfizer announced that it will stop selling its
inhaled insulin product Exubera.
2007-10-22 12:53:20 · answer #9 · answered by . 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Has your doctor had you on any oral diabetic medications? What other things have you done to control your glucose levels?
2007-10-22 11:59:50 · answer #10 · answered by tulley 1 · 0⤊ 1⤋