Exubera Inhaled Insulin

from Diabetes News and Nuggets

Inhaled insulin has finally arrived.  On January 27, 2006 the F.D.A. approved Exubera for sale in the United States. This is the latest breakthrough in diabetes management that people on or needing insulin have been waiting for. It uses a large inhaler device to emit fine particles of insulin into the lungs. Read on for more information regarding Exubera insulin from Pfizer.

What is Exubera™ or inhaled insulin?

Exubera is an insulin powder that is inhaled through the mouth using an EXUBERA inhaler. It is a prescription drug used to manage diabetes in adults. It has not been approved for use in children under the age of 18 years. (as of Jan, 2006). Inhaled insulin has not been testing in pregnant women. It has been developed by Pfizer.

When can I get it?

This inhaled insulin is estimated to be for sale in the United States in June or July of 2006. However, you will require a prescription.

Does it come in units?

No. The insulin powder comes in "blisters" -  foil dose packages that are used in the Exubera Inhaler. It comes in 1 mg and 3 mg "blisters". These are not necessarily equal to units. You must work with your physician and diabetes educator to titrate doses for inhaled insulin.

It is recommended that you DO NOT USE three 1 mg "blisters" in place of one 3 mg blister. It is possible you may get too much insulin and suffer hypoglycemia. Speak to your health care professional before using different dose "blisters" of insulin.

Can I stop insulin injections altogether?

Not likely.  Exubera is a fast acting insulin. It is not a basal insulin. You will still need N, NPH, Lantus (Glargine) or Levemir (Detemir) if you are on one of them now.  For an explanation on basal insulin click here and read  about a  third way down. Exubera can be used along with diabetes pills.

What is it's action?

Exubera is a rapid acting insulin. It's duration of action is reported to be the same as regular insulin or approximately 6 hrs.

Are there precautions? Who shouldn't use Exubera?

• Yes.  It is not recommended for people who smoke or who quit smoking less than 6 months ago. It can cause hypoglycemia in smokers.

• It is not recommended for people with  chronic lung disease eg. asthma, COPD, emphysema or any breathing problems.

•  Exubera may lower your lung function. Lung tests may need to be done before and during your use of Exubera.

• Take Exubera no more than 10 minutes before eating your meal if you are using it to cover food. (or as your health educator recommends).

• Follow your health care providers suggestions for frequency of testing using blood sugar monitors.

How do I get this inhaled insulin?

You will need to see your physician to obtain a prescription for Exubera.  You may also need to work  with your diabetes health care team to help determine appropriate doses. You will need training on the Exubera Inhaler.

For More Information on this inhaled insulin, please contact your physician, health care team and  visit www.pfizer.com and search for Exubera.

References:
1.  FDA
2.  Pfizer's U.S. package insert dated 2006-01-27.

Leaving inhaled insulin to go Home: How to Lower Blood Sugars