Inhaled insulin

People who are currently using insulin or who have been told that they may eventually need to begin using it may want to talk to their physicians about Exubera, a new rapid-acting insulin in powder form that is inhaled into the lungs through a patient's mouth using a specially designed inhaler about the size of an eyeglasses case. It is important to note that Exubera does not replace intermediate-acting or long-acting insulin, however, so anyone using those forms will still need to take them by injection. Generally, inhaled insulin is taken before meals, though timing and dosage will be guided by your healthcare provider.

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Inhaled insulin is not approved for anyone younger than 18 and shouldn't be used by people who smoke or who have given up cigarettes within the past six months--though it's considered safe for people who live with smokers. It's not recommended for patients with asthma, bronchitis, emphysema, or any form of active lung disease. Baseline tests for lung function are recommended before starting treatment, after the first six months of treatment, and every year thereafter, even if no pulmonary symptoms such as lung or breathing problems exist.

According to the Food and Drug Administration, which recently approved Exubera, it has been extensively studied for safety. The manufacturer, Pfizer, has said it will continue to study the product over the long term to confirm that it is safe and effective. Several other companies are developing inhaled insulin, too.