Insulin-and-Glucagon Artificial Pancreas Versus Insulin-Alone Artificial Pancreas: A Short Review

Abstract

IN BRIEF The advantage of the insulin-and-glucagon artificial pancreas is based on the rapid effect of subcutaneous glucagon delivery in preventing hypoglycemia compared to suspension of insulin delivery. In short-term studies, the dual-hormone artificial pancreas reduced daytime hypoglycemia, especially during exercise, compared to the insulin-alone artificial pancreas, but the insulin-alone system seemed sufficient in eliminating nocturnal hypoglycemia. The comparative benefits of the single- and dual-hormone systems for improving A1C and preventing severe hypoglycemia remain unknown.