Insulin is a hormone that is produced by the beta cells of the pancreas and plays a key role in regulating blood glucose (sugar) levels. It promotes the absorption of glucose by the cells of the body, reducing its concentration in the blood. Insulin helps glucose get into cells, where it is used as an energy source, or stored as glycogen in the liver and muscles for later use.

Insufficiency or impaired insulin action leads to an increase in blood glucose levels, which is the main cause of diabetes mellitus. In type 1 diabetes, the body does not produce enough insulin, and patients need regular insulin injections to control glucose levels. In type 2 diabetes, insulin is produced, but the body’s cells become insensitive to it, which may also require the use of insulin or other medications.

Insulin is administered subcutaneously in the form of injections or with the help of insulin pumps. Insulin treatment allows blood sugar levels to be controlled, preventing complications of diabetes such as kidney damage, vision, or cardiovascular disease.