Q: I have type 2 diabetes. If I go on insulin, will I need to be on it forever?

Ask Our Expert About Diabetes and Insulin

Q: I have type 2 diabetes. If I go on insulin, will I need to be on it forever?

A: Not necessarily. We sometimes put people with type 2 diabetes on insulin temporarily, just to bring very high blood sugar under control quickly. Whether you stay on insulin depends on how well oral diabetes medications and lifestyle changes work to keep blood sugar within target ranges.

Insulin, which is produced by the pancreas, moves sugar out of the blood stream and into our cells, where our bodies use it for nourishment. This in-and-out flow keeps blood sugar levels under control. Unlike people with type 1 diabetes, who make no insulin at all, people with type 2 do make some insulin; their bodies just don’t use it effectively. That’s why eating a healthy diet, counting carbohydrates, and getting plenty of exercise are essential even while taking one or more oral diabetes medications to control blood sugar.

Weight loss is an important tool to help your body better utilize its own insulin. The combination of weight loss, lifestyle changes, and medications are the tools to keep blood sugar under control. Overtime, though, your pancreas may become 'tired' and wear out. If that happens, you may need to take insulin to control blood sugar.

But don’t despair! If you’re going to have diabetes, now is the best time. We have a wide range of effective medications and other tools to help you control blood sugar and prevent complications.

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