Latest Advancements in Diabetes and Looking Towards the Future

Advancements are constantly being made in the medical field. Every year new solutions emerge to problems that have been plaguing humans for years. Diabetes is no different and as we make advancements in technology and medicine, we can hope for better treatment and maybe even a cure for this disease.

By Susan B. Sloane, BS, RPh, CDE

Treatments for patients with diabetes have gotten much better in the last five years; but for those patients with diabetes who are dependent on insulin, a cure has been promised for many years. Recent research puts us closer to this milestone and makes us all hope for a brighter future.

A company called Encellin is working diligently to change the course of treatment for people with diabetes. They are working with islet cell transplantation. Many companies have tried islet cell transplants before but have not achieved much success as the transplanted islet cells (responsible for making insulin) were eventually destroyed by the bodies’ own immune system.

Scientists at Encellin have developed an ultra-thin implantable cell delivery system that seems to protect the cells and keep them alive and functioning. The technique seems to be working in animal studies for extended periods of time. This proprietary technology that allows an implantable cluster of islet cells to function without being destroyed by the immune system gives hope for a potential way to cure insulin-dependent diabetes without the need for anti-rejection medications or immunosuppressants.

Hopefully, there will be human test subjects soon. Currently, the National Institute of Health (NIH) is also conducting a study whereby eligible patients (those with diabetes that is hard to control according to protocols) are given islet transplants.  his therapy does require the use of immunosuppressants at this time.

Another new product for insulin pump users should be available shortly in the US. A new infusion set inserter called the Minimed Mio Advance is an all in one fully disposable insulin pump infusion set inserter. It is a great advancement for people on insulin pumps that have oftentimes struggled with the insertion of insulin pump sets because of their complexity. The ease of insertion is sure to be helpful to many people who have been skeptical about using insulin pumps due to fear of needles.

As mobile apps become more popular in the diabetes world, enter Amalgam Rx, a new digital health company who just released a prescription only mobile application for automatic titration of basal insulin dosing. This revolutionary new product is intended to provide coaching support and dosing titration suggestions for basal insulin therapy. Once patients with type 2 diabetes are started on insulin therapy, there is a learning curve of how to use insulin, when to test blood sugars, and how to interpret these blood sugars.

The app is called iSageRXTM and is available only by prescription, which is a bit unusual for apps. It is intended for adults 21 years and older who are using and titrating basal insulin. The iSage RX app provides alerts and health guidance along with insulin management support.  The app is intended to educate providers as well to help patients better manage their diabetes who are start on basal insulin therapy,

This is just a small sampling of new technology and tools that are or will be available to help patients with diabetes live better and healthier lives. Keep your eyes out for these advancements (and others) and be sure to stay on top of the most up to date news regarding diabetes treatment!