Insulin Patch: Diabetes Control Without Injections

1. What is an insulin patch?

The insulin patch is an innovative medical device that provides a simple, painless, and patient-friendly way to deliver insulin to people with diabetes. It is a small patch that is applied to the skin and slowly releases insulin into the body. The patch contains an insulin reservoir and a microneedle or cannula that delivers insulin under the skin. Some advanced patches have glucose sensors that automatically deliver insulin based on blood sugar levels. Insulin patches are especially useful for people with type 1 diabetes and advanced type 2 diabetes who need to take insulin regularly. They reduce the hassle and pain of injections and improve quality of life.

2. How does the insulin patch work?

The insulin patch works as follows:

2.1. Application to the skin

The insulin patch is attached to the skin (usually on the abdomen, upper arm, or thigh) with an adhesive. The microneedle or cannula in the patch penetrates the skin, creating a pathway for insulin delivery.

2.2. Insulin supply

Insulin is released slowly or as needed from an insulin reservoir in the patch. Some patches are manually controlled, where the patient sets the dose via a handheld device or smartphone app. Advanced patches have glucose sensors, which monitor blood sugar levels and automatically deliver insulin.

2.3. Automatic control

Some modern insulin patches, such as closed-loop systems (i.e., artificial pancreases), are connected to a continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) device. This delivers insulin based on blood sugar levels and stops when it's not needed.

2.4. Security and removal

The insulin patch can usually be used for 2-7 days, after which it must be removed and a new patch applied. It is made of biocompatible material, which reduces the risk of skin irritation or allergies.

3. Benefits of insulin patches

Insulin patches provide several benefits for diabetics:

• No need for injections : The pain and inconvenience of multiple daily injections can be avoided.
• Precise dosing : The patch delivers the right amount of insulin, which keeps blood sugar levels stable.
• Ease of living : Patients can enjoy greater freedom during mealtimes or in daily activities.
• Ease of use : The patch is easy to apply and control, especially via a smartphone app.
• Psychological relief : Reduces fear or shame of injections, which has a positive impact on mental health.
• Fewer side effects : There is less risk of skin infections or complications compared to injections.

4. Disadvantages and challenges of insulin patches

While the potential for insulin patches is huge, there are some challenges:

• Skin reactions : Redness, itching, or swelling may occur at the site of patch application.
• Device malfunction : Problems with insulin delivery can occur due to mechanical malfunction or improper use of the patch.
• Cost : Insulin patches and their maintenance can be expensive, especially in developing countries.
• Training required : Patients may need to undergo initial training to use the patch.
• Limited availability : The availability of advanced insulin patches is still limited in countries like Bangladesh.
• Lack of long-term data : As the technology is new, research is ongoing into its long-term safety and effectiveness.

5. Types of insulin patches

Insulin patches can be of different types: