Insulin Inhaler Alert: Do No Use If You Have Lung Problems

Insulin injections have been saving lives for over eight decades now. However, many diabetics will still be glad to find a way to be able to take their daily insulin dosages without the use of needles. Afrezza, the inhalable discipline, was introduced in the market in February 2015. However, it might not be good for those who have lung problems, children who are not yet 18 years old, and those who smoke.

CBS News reported that Afrezza, manufactured by Mannkind Corp., is the first medication of its kind for diabetics as it delivers insulin monomers (molecules) inside the body. These monomers work exactly like pancreatic insulin and hence, does not cause hypoglycemia (lowering of blood sugar) if one takes a dose and does not eat afterward.

In 2006, Nektar Therapeutics had developed Exubera as the first insulin that could be inhaled. It was mealtime insulin. However, patients who needed basal insulin had to combine it with long-acting, injectable insulin. Afrezza, on the other hand, is a unique combination of molecules that protects the insulin until it reaches the lungs and gets released into the bloodstream.

It can be used for both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes. Those who have Type 1 diabetes will need to take long-acting insulin in addition to Afrezza though.

The dosing cartridges are color-coded to help you recognize the dosages you need. The inhalable insulin peaks within 12-15 minutes and circulates into the system within an hour. At present, fast-acting insulin injections that are being used take at least 20 minutes to take effect, and peak in two to three hours. Afrezza inhaler is disposable and needs to be replaced every two weeks.

The Afrezza website gives out warnings that the insulin inhaler is not meant for everyone. Inhaler insulin may cause coughing once it reaches our lungs. Hence, those who have asthma, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), or long-term lung problems should not use it.

Similarly, it is not known whether Afrezza is effective or safe for people who smoke, people who have quit smoking for less than six months, and kids under the age of 18 years. So, it's better that smokers keep using insulin injections instead.

Diabetics suffering from episodes of low blood sugar levels should also not use Afrezza inhaler. Insulin Inhalers by Afrezza are only available through prescriptions and not safe as over-the-counter drugs or medications.