When I say the word “insulin”, I can see the face change. Some people go quiet. Some say, “Doctor, please not injection.” Today I want to clear the fear, one myth at a time.
Myth 1: Insulin is the last stage before death
Fact: Insulin is a hormone that your body already makes. Using it when the body needs it is just like giving spectacles to someone who cannot see well. Many people live long, active lives on insulin.
Myth 2: Insulin damages the kidneys or eyes
Fact: High sugar damages them. Insulin, used correctly, lowers sugar and protects organs.
Myth 3: Once started, it can never be stopped
Fact: Some people, such as those with infection, steroid use or a recent very high sugar, take insulin for some time and later move to tablets. Others need it for long. The plan is reviewed again and again.
Myth 4: The injection is painful
Fact: Modern pen needles are very thin and short. Most people say it is less painful than a finger prick. Changing the site each time keeps the skin healthy.
Myth 5: Insulin makes you fat and weak
Fact: Insulin can add some weight if diet is not adjusted, but correct planning and walking keep this small. Weakness often comes from poor sugar control, not from insulin.
Tips for safe use
- Keep unopened insulin in the fridge, and the pen in use at room temperature, away from sunlight.
- Rotate injection sites in the belly or thigh.
- Never share pens.
- Eat on time and carry a sweet in case of low sugar.
- Check sugar as advised.
Who needs insulin?
All people with type 1 diabetes, and some with type 2, during pregnancy, serious illness, or when tablets are not enough. Needing insulin is not a failure. It is the right treatment at the right time.
If you live in Gopanpally, Gowlidoddi, Nallagandla or Tellapur, or work in the Financial District or Nanakramguda, a simple blood sugar check is available at our clinic in Gopanpally, Gachibowli. You can read more about our diabetes care or contact us to book a visit.
Keep reading
Your family doctor,
Akhila Reddy
MBBS, DNB (Family Medicine) | TSMC Reg. No. APMC/FMR/74261
AMC Hospital, Gopanpally, Gachibowli, Hyderabad
This article is for general health education and does not replace a check-up. Every person is different, so please speak to your doctor before changing any medicine. In an emergency, call 108 or go to the nearest hospital.
References
- American Diabetes Association. Pharmacologic Approaches to Glycemic Treatment: Standards of Care in Diabetes-2025. Diabetes Care 2025;48(Suppl 1). https://diabetesjournals.org/care/issue/48/Supplement_1
- World Health Organization. Diabetes fact sheet. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/diabetes
- Diabetes Control and Complications Trial Research Group. N Engl J Med 1993;329:977-986.