People with type 1 diabetes require supplemental insulin because their bodies can no longer produce insulin themselves. However, type 2 diabetes is different. Less than one-third of those with type 2 diabetes take insulin. The CDC puts the number at about 28%.Some experts have long believed that more patients with type 2 diabetes should be on insulin to reach their glycemic (blood glucose) and lipid (cholesterol) targets.

When diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, many people wonder if — or when — they will need insulin. Some patients fear injections or believe that insulin, however delivered, represents a personal failure, so they resist taking the drug, even when they need it. That’s not wise since untreated diabetes can lead to serious complications.

Whether or not a patient with type 2 diabetes needs insulin is based on individual circumstances.

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