Pharmacologic management of type 1 diabetes: a review for dentistry

Abstract

The incidence of diabetes mellitus has increased dramatically in the United States over the last 40 years. In 2006, reported cases of diabetes mellitus increased by 6.0%. The vast majority of these increased cases involve Type 2 diabetes, which is becoming much more common in children, adolescents, and young adults. This article reviews the pharmacological treatments available for Type 1 diabetes, the monitoring necessary for diabetes patients, the regimens of intensive insulin therapy that have replaced conventional therapy, and the complications of insulin therapy. Alternate methods of insulin delivery and options for patients are discussed.