Insulin is a hormone that is naturally secreted by the pancreas, or more precisely by the cells situated in the islets of Langerhans. Insulin allows glucose (sugar) to enter the body’s cells. The cells use glucose for energy or store it for future use.
In non-diabetic individuals, insulin is secreted continuously. The body produces the necessary amount of insulin based on its needs and the foods eaten. For example, after a meal or snack, the pancreas secretes an additional amount of insulin, which keeps blood glucose levels within normal limits.
Insulin in diabetic individuals
In an individual with type 1 diabetes, the pancreas is no longer able to produce insulin. That is why insulin must be injected several times per day to mimic normal pancreatic function.
In an individual with type 2 diabetes, the pancreas still produces some insulin, but the body is not able to use it effectively. Consequently, antidiabetic medication is often needed. Sometimes, insulin injections are also required.
Insulin from the laboratory
There are two categories of laboratory-manufactured insulin: human insulin and analogue insulin. The molecular structure of human insulin is identical to the insulin produced by the human pancreas, whereas the structure of analogue insulin is slightly modified compared to human insulin in order to give it new properties.
The concentration of insulin is expressed in units per cc (1 cc = 1 millilitre). In Canada, there are two concentration available: 100 or 200 units per cc. Insulin concentrations can vary from one country to another. That is why it is important to read the labels carefully if you need to buy insulin when travelling abroad.
Author: Louise Tremblay, Nurse, M. Ed. and Cynthia Chaput, Dietitian
In collaboration with: Justine Couturier, Pharmacist
Last update September 2015