Users turn a dial to select the desired dose of insulin and press a plunger on the end to deliver the insulin. These are great for people who fear needles, but they're expensive and you have to boil and sterilize the units frequently. External insulin pumps - These connect to narrow, flexible plastic tubing that ends with a needle inserted just under the skin near the abdomen. The insulin pump is about the size of a deck of cards, weighs about 3 ounces, and can be worn on a belt or in a pocket. Users set the pump to give a steady trickle or 'basal' amount of insulin continuously throughout the day.
Most pumps have the option for setting several rates.
If you use an insulin pump, it's really important to monitor your blood sugar frequently so you can determine the right dose and also to be sure that the insulin is being delivered. These pumps can be expensive to buy and maintain. The inhaled insulin delivery system provides insulin as a dry powder inhaled through the mouth directly into the lungs where it passes into the bloodstream. This aerosol delivery system is about the size of a flashlight and uses rapid-acting insulin. Approaches under development Insulin pumps are surgically implanted, usually on the left side of the abdomen.