Comparison of insulin regimens and administration modalities in pregnancy complicated by diabetes.
OBJECTIVE
To compare insulin administration using premixed insulin (70% NPH/30% Regular) by an injectable pen with traditional self-mixed insulin administered by syringe.


METHODS
In this study, 93 women were enrolled into four groups: 1) self-mixed/syringe, 2) premixed/syringe, 3) self-mixed/pen, and 4) premixed/pen.


RESULTS
Women in the premixed pen group had significantly less cesarean deliveries for failure to progress in labor and a decrease (not significant) in postpartum infection and infant macrosomia. Patients felt premixed insulin administered by the pen was easier to use. No significant differences were noted in glucose control, compliance among the four groups, or cost.


CONCLUSIONS
Premixed insulin administration via the pen is safe, effective and no more costly than traditional treatment for pregnant diabetic women.
Schuster
M W
MW
Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Decatur General Hospital, Alabama, USA.
Chauhan
S P
SP
McLaughlin
B N
BN
Perry
K G
KG
Morrison
J C
JC
D001786:Blood Glucose / Q000032:analysis* / Q000187:drug effects; D002585:Cesarean Section / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D003922:Diabetes Mellitus, Type 1 / Q000188:drug therapy*; D004338:Drug Combinations; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007004:Hypoglycemic Agents / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D007279:Injections, Subcutaneous; D007328:Insulin / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D007336:Insulin, Isophane / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D011247:Pregnancy; D011256:Pregnancy Outcome; D011254:Pregnancy in Diabetics / Q000188:drug therapy*; D011446:Prospective Studies; D013594:Syringes
D001786:Blood Glucose; D004338:Drug Combinations; D007004:Hypoglycemic Agents; D007328:Insulin; D007336:Insulin, Isophane