Insulin Route?

Explanation

Core Concept: Insulin is a peptide hormone that would be destroyed by gastrointestinal enzymes if taken orally. Therefore, it must be administered parenterally for systemic absorption.

Clinical Presentation:

• N/A (Pharmacology).

Diagnosis:

• N/A.

Management:

• *Acute:* Administer insulin via the *subcutaneous* route, which provides predictable and consistent absorption. (Note: Regular insulin can be given IV in acute emergencies like DKA, but routine administration is subcutaneous).
• *Definitive:* Rotate injection sites to prevent lipohypertrophy or lipoatrophy, which can cause erratic insulin absorption.