A tool used in diabetes management assists in determining the continuous, low-dose insulin delivery required to maintain stable blood glucose levels between meals and overnight. This crucial element of insulin pump therapy mimics the function of a healthy pancreas by providing a steady trickle of insulin. An example of its application is in calculating the appropriate hourly insulin dose to balance blood sugar during sleep or periods of fasting.
Precise background insulin delivery is fundamental to optimal diabetes control, preventing both hyperglycemia (high blood sugar) and hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). This automated approach represents a significant advance over traditional multiple daily injections, offering greater flexibility and potentially improving overall health outcomes. Historically, determining basal rates involved manual calculations and adjustments based on frequent blood glucose monitoring. These tools, often digital, simplify and streamline this process, making it easier for individuals and their healthcare providers to achieve personalized insulin delivery.