Optimal use of quick-acting insulin analogue in combination with basal insulin and its long-term effect in Japanese children and adolescents with type 1 diabetes

The aim of the study was to examine the optimal use of quick-acting insulin analogue (Q) switching from regular insulin (R) in combination with basal insulin and its long-term effects in 40 Japanese children and adolescents with type 1 diabetes. Insulin regimens after administration of Q were increased to twice daily injections of basal insulin and modified use of Q or R as bolus insulin depending on the blood glucose profile and lifestyles. The mean dose of total insulin remained unchanged during treatment with using Q, but that of basal insulin increased 12 months after the use of Q (baseline: 25.8 ± 12.2, after 12 months: 27.1 ± 12.6 U/day). After switching to Q, the mean HbA1c value decreased in all patients (baseline: 7.6 ± 1.0, after 12 months: 7.3 ± 0.8%), which reflected improvement of HbA1c in patients with HbA1c ≧ 8% at baseline. These results indicated that insulin regimens after switching from R to Q varied with increases of the number and the dosage of basal insulin. Use of Q seems to be useful to improve hyperglycemia in patients with a poor glucose profile under conventional insulin treatment with using R. The choice of insulin regimens with using Q in consideration of the blood glucose profile as well as lifestyles may lead to better glycemic control.