How is insulin most commonly administered?

Insulin is most commonly administered subcutaneously using a syringe or pen device. This method of delivery is preferred for several reasons. First, subcutaneous injection allows for a slower and more sustained absorption of insulin into the bloodstream, which is crucial for effectively managing blood glucose levels over time. This method also allows patients to self-administer insulin conveniently at home, using either pre-filled pen devices or traditional syringes.

While intravenous administration can be used in certain clinical settings, such as in hospital emergencies or when precise control of insulin levels is needed, it is not the standard method for everyday diabetes management. Oral administration is not effective for insulin because it is a peptide hormone that would be broken down by the digestive enzymes and not reach the bloodstream. Inhalation is also not a common method for insulin delivery due to its limited availability and potential variability in absorption. Subcutaneous administration via a syringe or pen remains the gold standard for patients managing diabetes, highlighting its practicality and effectiveness in routine care.