Afrezza is the first inhalable insulin to be approved in Brazil, indicated to control high levels of sugar in adults with diabetes mellitus. This insulin can replace rapid injectable insulins, which are generally used with meals, but is not suitable for long-acting insulin replacement, and should be used in combination with a long-acting insulin in patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus.
This fast-acting inhaled insulin is now available for use in Brazil.
How to use
This medicine should be administered at the beginning of the meal, through the inhaler, as indicated by the doctor.
How it works
Afrezza insulin dissolves quickly after inhalation into the lung, immediately reaching the bloodstream. Maximum levels are reached between 12 to 15 minutes after administration of the drug, and decrease in approximately 3 hours.
Who should not use
Afrezza should not be used by people with chronic lung diseases, such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, people who are hypersensitive to the components in the formula, or who have already reacted to other insulins, should not be used to treat diabetic ketoacidosis, smokers and under 18 years old.
In addition, the doctor should be informed if the person has a history of lung cancer, uses inhalation medications, has liver or kidney problems and is pregnant or breastfeeding.
Possible side effects
Some of the side effects that may occur during treatment with Afrezza are hypoglycemia, decreased lung function, lung cancer, diabetic ketoacidosis, allergic reactions, decreased blood potassium and heart failure.
