Újszeged Medical Center

The insulin pump is undoubtedly a tool of 21st-century diabetology—a small, portable device that continuously delivers insulin into the body. For people with diabetes, it provides significant health benefits and convenience, as they no longer need to administer insulin through multiple injections daily.

What is the Insulin Pump?

An insulin pump is a mechanical device powered by a battery. It is more convenient and simpler to use than an insulin pen, which requires multiple daily injections. In Hungary, approximately 2,200 people use insulin pumps, and this number is steadily increasing, especially since 2010 when the National Health Insurance Fund (OEP) began providing substantial financial support for these devices.

The pump continuously delivers the pre-set daily amount of insulin.

Types of Insulin Delivered by the Pump:

• Long-acting (basal) insulin: Delivered continuously throughout the day

• Rapid-acting (bolus) insulin: Administered at specific times, usually before meals

How Does an Insulin Pump Work?

The pump contains a reservoir that stores insulin, which is continuously administered under the patient's skin. A small cannula is inserted under the skin, usually in the abdominal area, and is connected to the pump via a thin catheter. The cannula typically needs to be replaced every 2-4 days for hygiene reasons.

What Are the Benefits?

International medical organizations recognize that this insulin delivery system closely mimics natural insulin regulation. In addition to reducing the likelihood of nighttime hypoglycemia, it can also improve HbA1c levels.

• More precise insulin delivery, reducing blood sugar fluctuations
• Lowers the risk of hypoglycemia
• Fewer injections, greater convenience
• Smoother blood sugar levels
• Improves HbA1c values
• Better quality of life and flexibility in diabetes management
• Reduces the risk of diabetes-related complications
• Helps manage blood sugar fluctuations more effectively during early pregnancy
• Smart features: Some models integrate continuous glucose monitoring (CGM)

Who Should Consider Using an Insulin Pump?

The use of an insulin pump is subject to several criteria, taking into account not only the patient's experience but also their level of cooperation and lab results.

It is recommended for individuals with type 1 diabetes who have had the condition for at least three years and meet at least one of the following criteria:

• Repeated HbA1c levels >7% (or >6.5% for women planning pregnancy)

• High daily blood sugar fluctuations (≥10.0 mmol/L)

• Confirmed dawn phenomenon

• At least three clinically symptomatic hypoglycemic episodes per month

• At least one severe hypoglycemic episode within six months

• HbA1c level >8% in the last six months

• Decrease in hypoglycemic episodes after starting pump therapy

• Reduction in daily blood sugar fluctuations over the last six months

• Fewer asymptomatic hypoglycemic episodes after starting pump therapy

When Is an Insulin Pump NOT Recommended?

The insulin pump is not suitable for every patient. Certain cases require alternative treatment approaches.

Potential Drawbacks of an Insulin Pump

• More expensive than traditional insulin therapy
• Some users may find wearing it uncomfortable; it may get caught on objects or feel intrusive
• Technical issues, such as tubing blockages or device malfunctions, can lead to rapid blood sugar spikes

The Future of Insulin Pumps

Insulin pump technology continues to evolve, with newer, smaller, and even wireless models being introduced regularly. However, wireless insulin pumps are not yet available in Hungary.

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Image Source: Medtronic