Authorization in the USA of inhaled insulin to treat diabetes
What if, to treat his diabetes, we no longer needed to inflict daily injections?
This is what will soon be possible in the United States. Indeed, according to a press release dated June 30, 2014 from the US Food and Drug Administration, the latter would have approved the drug AFREZZA. The FDA is an agency of the US Department of Health and Human Services (1) .
What is AFREZZA?
AFREZZA is a fast-acting, inhaled insulin that is given at the start of each meal.
Jean-Marc Guettier, Director of the Division of Metabolism and Endocrinology at the Food Drug Administration’s Center for Evaluation and Research, said, “AFREZZA is a new treatment option for patients with diabetes requiring ‘prandial insulin’ (2) .
AFREZZA, on the other hand, is not a substitute for long-acting insulin. It should be used in combination with it in patients with type 1 diabetes.
AFREZZA is not recommended in some cases
This drug has its advantages, but it also has its disadvantages and contraindications . Indeed, taking AFREZZA is not recommended for smokers, as well as for the treatment of diabetic ketoacidosis.
A warning has also been issued for people with chronic lung diseases, such as asthma, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
Adverse effects noted during clinical trials were cough, hypoglycaemia, or throat irritation or pain.
Ongoing monitoring for this medication
Even though the FDA has approved AFREZZA for marketing, it still requires post-marketing studies. Thus, a clinical trial will be carried out to study the pharmacokinetics of the drug in children, a second clinical trial to assess the potential risk of pulmonary malignancy and the long-term cardiovascular risk.
Still positive reactions
Following the announcement of this marketing authorization, many positive reactions emanated from the medical world.
It is true that this treatment can offer some comfort to diabetics. The leader of MannKind Corporation, the company that developed the drug AFREZZA, Mr. Mann Alfred, said: “The FDA’s decision validates the years of clinical research and commitment that have made possible the development of this unique treatment .”
Stephen Paul is the lead author and founder of My Health Sponsor. Holder of a diploma in health and well-being coaching with more than 200 articles in the field of health, he makes it a point of honor to offer advice based on reliable information, based on scientific research, and verified by health professionals.