Use of neutral protamine lispro (NPL) insulin in a patient affected by acute pancreatitis under parenteral nutrition

Abstract

Hyperglycaemia is considered the main obstacle to the activation of a correct nutritional support, even in patients not affected by diabetes mellitus. The stress associated with the acute pathology stimulates controinsular hormones and causes modifications in the glucidic metabolism. Artificial nutrition (AN), both enteral and parenteral (PN), is considered one of the main causes of hyperglycaemia in hospitalized patients. ADI-AMD recommendations underline that a long-acting insulin analogues can be used on a stabilized patient supported with PN via peristaltic pump. In the following case report, a patient under PN was given, after a surgery for acute pancreatitis, an injectable suspension of lispro NPL insulin. Our case report shows that also NPL lispro insulin subcutaneously can be used in patients under PN who need an insulin treatment and who can use a constant-flow infusion pump. Thanks to initial observations on the use of NPL insulin lispro in patients under PN we can assume the importance of such an insulin in association with AN. Clin Ter 2011; 162(3):231-234.