What is smart insulin?

Smart technology shapes everything we do these days, including having a hand in healthcare and medical therapies. It has recently become more widely used in treating diabetes through wearable devices and newer and more improved forms of insulin

At Texas Diabetes & Endocrinology (TD&E), our team of board-certified endocrinologists treat all forms of diabetes and we are always engaged in research to study more innovative and cutting-edge technologies that may help our patients.

People living with diabetes need to constantly monitor and regulate their blood sugar levels and insulin. As they need to supplement the insulin that their body lacks, any time we can discover a better, more efficient way for patients to receive insulin, the better quality of life they can lead. 

Research shows that smart insulin technology has the potential to do that.

What is smart insulin?

Smart insulin is administered via a reusable injection pen that is connected to a smartphone app to more accurately and efficiently support insulin management. The smart software system can decipher glucose readings and automatically calculate and recommend dosages for the user while also generating reminders and alerts to keep them on track and their blood sugar levels within normal ranges. 

Other developments in advancing insulin efficiency include ‘glucose-responsive insulins’ where the insulin is delivered in injections or capsule form. This long-lasting insulin is stored in the body until it ‘senses’ an insulin boost is needed, and then it is activated. 

What is the benefit of smart insulin technology?

These new smart insulin technologies in development are specifically designed to help those with insulin dependent diabetes.

“Our goal in researching new and better diabetes treatments is to ease the burden of constant testing, managing and administering insulin,” said diabetes specialist and board-certified endocrinologist Dr. Jean Chen.

“We believe smart insulin technology can offer a better quality of life for patients with insulin dependent diabetes by providing an insulin support system that is seamless and very closely mirrors how the body is meant to naturally process and balance glucose.” 

When will smart insulin products be available? 

Various forms of smart insulin pens are available to patients. New forms of smart insulin and glucose responsive insulin are the subject of clinical research trials all over the world. TD&E recently participated in the Novo Nordisk ONWARDS trial, a type of weekly injectable insulin known as insulin icodec.  It is currently in the FDA approval stage to assess safety and efficacy.

TD&E prides itself on offering patients the opportunity to participate in clinical research trials that may enhance their current treatments and potentially provide additional support or alleviation of symptoms related to their condition. 

More about our clinical research department and available trials can be found here.

Contact Us to Help Manage your Diabetes, Osteoporosis and Thyroid Conditions 

If you’d like to schedule an appointment with one of our specialists at Texas Diabetes & Endocrinology and discover how our diabetes services, heart disease prevention,  and other endocrinology therapies can help you lead a full and active life, please contact us at (512) 458-8400 or request an appointment online.

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