A Smartphone-Based Application to Assist Insulin Titration in Patients Undergoing Basal Insulin-Supported Oral Antidiabetic Treatment

Abstract

Introduction: INSULIA is an insulin-titration app developed for patients with type 2 diabetes treated with basal insulin as part of a basal insulin-supported oral therapy (BOT). The app uses patient-logged fasting blood glucose (FBG) values and a titration plan defined by the treating physician to provide basal insulin dosing recommendations. Physicians use the web portal to monitor their patients’ therapy progress and, if necessary, adjust therapy. The aim of this study was to assess the app, specifically its features, handling and impact on diabetes treatment and self-management in Germany. Methods: This German retrospective pilot study included physicians (diabetologists, general practitioners, and internists) and patients with type 2 diabetes who either receive or start BOT using the app. Both groups completed group-specific questionnaires between December 2018 and June 2019. Results: Overall, 10 physicians and 34 patients with type 2 diabetes completed their respective questionnaires. Physicians perceived their app-using patients to be more involved and more confident in managing their insulin therapy than patients not using the app. The majority of patients considered the app as a tool that assists with safer insulin treatment. The physicians perceived that due to the app use, FBG and HbA1c target values were achieved more often than patients not using the app and the number and severity of hypoglycemic episodes was reduced. Conclusion: The titration app seems to have a positive impact on BOT patients’ FBG and HbA1c target achievement and was highly appreciated by both physicians and patients alike.