Inhaled insulin

Overview

Inhaled insulin is to be marketed in the Czech Republic this year. In terms of its pharmacokinetic properties, it resembles short-acting insulin analogs. Given its rapid onset of action, inhaled insulin has a marked effect on postprandial blood glucose levels. Comparative trials using inhaled insulin have documented diabetes control similar to that obtained with subcutaneous insulin. Compared with other rapidly acting insulins, the lower rates and severity of hypoglycemia seen with inhaled insulin improve the quality of life of patients, with a beneficial impact on patients’ cooperation with the physician. The paper summarizes available information on the characteristics of inhaled insulin, its indications, and some undesirable effects.

Key words:
inhaled insulin, routs of insulin delivery