What is the term for the method of insulin dosage that is based on blood sugar levels?

The term for the method of insulin dosage that is based on blood sugar levels is known as sliding scale insulin. This approach involves adjusting insulin doses according to the patient's current blood glucose readings at specific times of the day. The sliding scale provides a flexible way to manage glycemic control, allowing for variations in food intake, stress, illness, or physical activity, which may affect a patient's blood sugar levels.

The sliding scale typically includes predetermined insulin doses that correspond to different ranges of blood glucose levels, enabling healthcare providers to tailor treatment more effectively. This method is particularly beneficial for patients who may experience fluctuating blood sugar levels and need immediate adjustments based on their readings.

In contrast, other types of insulin regimens, such as bolus insulin, are fixed doses given at specific times, and basal insulin is a steady, long-acting insulin meant to maintain blood glucose levels over a longer period. Pre-meal insulin refers specifically to doses taken before meals to manage the rise in blood glucose that occurs after eating, but it is not as dynamically adjusted as sliding scale insulin.