Insulin therapy is the primary treatment for type 1 diabetes. Insulin reduces sugar levels in the bloodstream by stimulating the body to utilize glucose for energy. Insulin is given by injection, or through an automatic insulin pump. Both methods require regular blood sugar measurements, in order to monitor therapy.

Insulin pumps are small devices that that deliver insulin through a tiny needle placed in the skin. This provides a constant dose of short-acting insulin at all times. The pump can be adjusted to release extra insulin before a meal.

Insulin injection therapy involves injections of short, intermediate, or long-acting insulin, at different times of the day. Insulin injections may be given 2 to 4 times per day. Insulin doses vary, depending on a person's size, blood sugar level, caloric intake and activity.