Whether 20 units of insulin is a lot depends on the individual and the context of their treatment.
According to the provided reference, a basal insulin regimen is often started at a low dose, with 10 to 20 units being a typical starting point. This suggests that 20 units can be considered a relatively low dose, especially when initiating insulin therapy.
Here's a breakdown to consider:
- Starting Dose: For those new to insulin, 20 units could be the initial dose and then adjusted based on blood glucose levels.
- Combined Therapies: If a person is using a combination of treatments, such as oral medications plus insulin, 20 units might be a suitable or even higher dose than if they were on insulin alone. The reference states that combination treatments usually lower the required insulin dose.
- Individual Needs: Ultimately, the "right" amount of insulin is highly individual and depends on factors like weight, insulin sensitivity, diet, and activity level.
In summary, while 20 units might be a starting dose for some, it's not universally considered a "lot" without considering the individual's specific treatment plan and circumstances.
