How to Convert NPH Insulin to an Insulin Pump
Insulin pumps deliver two types of insulin dosages: a basal rate, that delivers a low yet constant stream of insulin 24 hours a day automatically, and a bolus rate, which is programmed to be delivered by the user before eating carbohydrates or to correct a high blood sugar reading. Unlike traditional insulin injections that combine a number of insulin types (i.e. NPH as a long-acting insulin and Humalog as a short-acting insulin), insulin pumps deliver only one kind of short-acting insulin. Converting from your typical NPH dosages to an insulin pump may seem daunting, but doctors have developed a mathematical formula to ease the transition.
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
-
1
Add up the total number of units of insulin you currently take during each 24-hour period. Include NPH and any other long- or short-acting insulin you take.
-
2
Multiply this number by .4.
-
-
3
Divide the result by 24. This is your initial hourly basal rate for the insulin pump. Don't round your result up or down; all insulin pumps can be programmed to at least one decimal place (i.e. 1.3) and many can be programmed to two decimal places (i.e. 1.35).
-
1
Tips & Warnings
This formula will help you initially convert your NPH dosages to an insulin pump, but most people need further refinement. Frequent blood sugar readings are crucial for determining which time periods you may require a higher or lower basal rate. Fasting for 24 hours is also an excellent way to determine your basal needs without the interference of food or bolus rates.
Do not start insulin pump therapy without consulting your doctor. While the above calculation works for most people, it was designed to be used in conjunction with a healthcare professional and diabetes educator. Programming an insulin pump with dosages that are too high for your needs can send you into a hypoglycemic coma, which can be fatal if you are driving, operating heavy machinery, or live alone.
