Hypoglycaemia is the most feared side effect of insulin therapy and it is often the greatest barrier that prevents individuals from achieving glycaemic targets (Pramming et al, 1991). In addition to the physical risk, the social and psychological impact of hypoglycaemia unawareness on the individual and their family is devastating.

People with insulin-treated diabetes face a daily dilemma. Evidence from the DCCT (1993) demonstrates that strict glycaemic control and intensive insulin therapy prevent the development of complications associated with diabetes; however, such intensive treatment is associated with a three-fold increase in episodes of severe hypoglycaemia. For individuals who ...