The insulin pump, or insulin infusion pump, as it may also be called, is a small, portable electronic device that releases insulin for 24 hours. The insulin is released and goes through a small tube to a cannula, which is connected to the body of the diabetic individual through a flexible needle, which is inserted in the abdomen, arm or thigh, as shown in the images.
The insulin infusion pump allows better control of blood sugar levels and diabetes, and can be used for individuals of all ages with type 1 or type 2 diabetes, under the indication and prescription by the endocrinologist.
The doctor schedules the insulin pump with the amount of insulin that must be released for 24 hours a day. However, the individual needs to control their blood sugar levels using the glucometer and adjust the insulin doses according to their food intake and daily exercise.
At each meal, the individual needs to calculate the amount of carbohydrates to be ingested and program the insulin infusion pump to deliver an extra dose of insulin to the body, called a bolus, depending on this value.
The needle of the insulin pump must be replaced every 2 to 3 days and in the first days, it is normal for the individual to feel it inserted into the skin. However, with the use of the pump the individual ends up getting used to it.
The patient is trained on how to use the insulin infusion pump by a diabetes nurse or educator before starting to use it alone.
Where to buy the insulin pump
The insulin pump must be purchased directly from the manufacturer, which may be Medtronic, Roche or Accu-Chek.
Insulin pump price
The price of the insulin pump varies between 13, 000 to 15, 000 reais and maintenance between 500 to 1500 reais per month.
The insulin infusion pump and materials can be free, but the process is difficult because a lawsuit is required with a detailed description of the patient's clinical process and the need for the doctor to use the pump and proof that the patient is not is able to acquire and maintain monthly treatment.
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