Comparison of Effectiveness of Various Methods of Administration of Insulin

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Abstract
Expts. were made on 3 normal human subjects, one diabetic human subject, and 2 normal adult dogs to determine the effectiveness of the sublingual method of insulin adm. Any effect of insulin administered in this way was so slight that this mode appears entirely unsuitable for therapeutic use. The implantation of pellets of insulin-cholesterol (20% insulin, 80% cholesterol) into 4 normal adult dogs was followed by a marked drop in the blood-sugar level. The insulin release gradually decreased until no definite effect of the hormone, as judged by the blood-glucose level, was observed after 2-3 wks. A similar response was observed following the implantation of Ag cylinders firmly packed with crystalline insulin and open at the ends. In the case of both pellets and cylinders, the insulin effect was inconstant. Examination of the tissue surrounding the pellets and cylinders showed a mass of granulation and fibrous tissue typical of that which forms around a nonirritating foreign body. This tissue apparently halted the insulin absorption.