Afrezza: An inhaled approach to insulin delivery.

PURPOSE

The purpose of this article is to educate nurse practitioners about Afrezza.

DATA SOURCES

A comprehensive literature search was conducted using MEDLINE for clinical trial data. Information from the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention, World Health Organization, clinical guidelines, Food and Drug Administration labeling, briefings, and press releases was also utilized.

CONCLUSIONS

Afrezza represents a promising noninjectable insulin delivery option for type 1 and type 2 diabetes mellitus. According to clinical trial evidence, it appears to be efficacious and comparable to currently available prandial insulin options, and based on current data, it appears to be a safe alternative to injectable insulin with high treatment satisfaction.

IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE

Afrezza may offer an alternative for insulin naïve patients who are hesitant about initiating traditional insulin. It may cause less weight gain when compared to subcutaneous mealtime insulin with a more rapid absorption and elimination profile, but more long-term studies are needed. Afrezza is limited in type 1 diabetes to use in combination with basal insulin. It is not recommended in the treatment of diabetic ketoacidosis or for patients who smoke. It is contraindicated during hypoglycemic episodes, in chronic lung diseases, or in those with hypersensitivity to regular human insulin or any of the excipients in Afrezza.