In people with T2D, the use of insulin is an important decision. Researchers wanted to evaluate the likelihood of a low sugar based on the type of insulin used. The findings of this study were published in Diabetes Research and Clinical Practice.

The hypoglycemic episodes were categorized into three  scenarios: severe hypoglycemic event requiring inpatient or emergency department care.

The overall evaluation of the study broke the hypoglycemic events into categories by the association between insulin type and the risk of severe hypoglycemic events.

The study investigated over 8.600 people with T2D who were followed for about 4 years. After about 3 years in the study, less than 2% of participants had a severe hypoglycemic event.

Patients with severe hypogolycemic events were slightly older, above 52 years old for males and females.  premixed insulin (NPH and short-acting insulin), isophane insulin (NPH), and rapid acting insulin had significantly higher risks of severe hypoglycemic events compared with glargine, also known as Lantus.

No statistically significant difference in severe hypoglycemic events was seen with detemir. also known as Levermir.

The findings of this study were that people who used newer basal insulin analogues were less likely to  experience severe hypoglycemic events requiring assistance than users of other insulin formulations

For the record, if people with T2D speak with their doctors about starting insulin therapy, it’s probably a good idea to consider all the options before you commit to a brand. Lantus may sound good to you but Levemir may be good to you. Your doctor’s advice is best for you.

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