How is the route of administration of insulin decided?

Generally, if someone can eat and drink, then the use of subcutaneous insulin to regulate their blood glucose levels is appropriate.

The use of insulin intravenously by infusion is appropriate when:

• The patient has recurrent vomiting
• The patient is nil by mouth
• The patient is missing more than 1 meal (e.g. an operation or procedure)
• The patient is severely ill and good glucose control is needed