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Diabetes Prescription Insulin Medications »

What is the diabetes medication insulin and how does it work?

Insulin is a hormone that is produced by certain cells in the pancreas called beta cells. Insulin helps the body use blood glucose (a type of sugar) for energy. When we eat and absorb food, glucose levels rise and insulin is released.

Some people can't make insulin; those people are said to have type 1 diabetes. A person with type 2 diabetes can make insulin, but the body doesn't respond well to insulin; they are said to have “insulin resistance.”

For what conditions is the diabetes medication insulin used?

Insulin is always necessary for type 1 diabetes because the body has no internal source of insulin. People with type 2 diabetes may also need insulin, particularly those who have difficulty controlling their diabetes with oral medications.

Are there differences among types of insulin?

Insulins differ based on three ...

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