Insulin Not a Failure: Expert on Type 2 Shift

The decision to transition from oral medications to insulin for type 2 diabetes management is a calculated medical choice, not an admission of failure. Endocrinologists evaluate blood sugar levels, patient symptoms, and the pancreas's insulin production capacity to determine the optimal treatment path.

When HbA1c remains elevated or fasting blood glucose consistently exceeds specific thresholds, despite optimized oral medications and lifestyle changes, insulin therapy becomes a necessary consideration. Symptoms such as excessive thirst, frequent urination, fatigue, and unexplained weight loss also signal that oral drugs alone are no longer adequate for glycemic control.

Certain situations, including pregnancy, surgery, or acute illnesses, may necessitate prompt insulin initiation for better control. While not always permanent, insulin offers a safer and more adaptable solution. Younger adults with type 2 diabetes might require insulin sooner due to modern lifestyle stressors, irregular habits, and early insulin resistance, potentially leading to a faster decline in pancreatic function.