The continuous flow of treatment and technological innovation in diabetes research is amazing. One of the latest breakthroughs that caught our attention these past few weeks, Thermalin’s new insulin prototype, could improve the daily lives of many people with type 1 diabetes.
This ultra-rapid insulin prototype called T-1123 doesn’t need to be stored in the refrigerator and can be kept at room temperature for one year. Compared with existing types of insulin, which must be kept in the refrigerator until use, and then at room temperature for 30 to 45 days, this is definitely an improvement.
In fact, this new ambitious product offers several advantages. Its stability at room temperature simplifies distribution to pharmacies, homes, workplaces, etc., and activities such as camping, long hikes and travelling.
With this new type of insulin, people who use insulin pumps could potentially avoid the potential crystallization of insulin when they don’t change their rapid-acting (or, particularly, ultra-rapid) insulin cartridge every two to three days, as well as the resulting blockage of the tubing and cannula.
New insulin pump
Thermalin is also developing a new insulin pump to be used with T-1123. The pump will have no tubing and will be less than 4 cm wide, a size that no pump currently on the market can reach since their cartridge alone is wider. So, how can the size of the cartridge be so significantly reduced? The pump will be made for use with insulin with a higher concentration, which will still allow the smaller cartridge to hold enough insulin for at least three days.
Even though these innovations seem promising, there are still many steps to be taken before they are available on the market. But isn’t amazing to have a glimpse of what the future holds for us?
Références
- Hoskins, M. (2021, February 15). Thermalin: No refrigeration insulin and mini stamppump. Retrieved March 08, 2021, from https://www.healthline.com/diabetesmine/thermalin-non-refrigerated-insulin-and-mini-stamppump.
- About THERMALIN Inc. (n.d.). Retrieved March 08, 2021, from http://thermalin.com/