Bottle containing 10 examples of oral insulin 'Capsulin' pill, made by Diabetology Limited, UK, c.2007

Oral insulin has been a long-time goal for researchers and pharmaceutical companies. It is hoped that it could more closely mimic the action of the pancreas, releasing insulin into the body. However, this is a challenge as tablets are broken down by digestive juices in the stomach, so it is difficult to ensure the correct dose is taken. Oral insulin is seen to be a preferable alternative to injections and more acceptable way to deliver the treatment. There has been continued development and clinical trials of oral insulin for type 1 and type 2 diabetes.