Introduction: inhaled insulins:potential therapies for diabetes mellitus

ABSTRACT

There is no doubt that diabetes is an extensive worldwide problem. Several studies have demonstrated that reducing levels of glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA_1c) decreases the risk of developing diabetic complications. Insulin is the most effective glucose-lowering agent available. However, several barriers prevent the initiation and intensification of insulin therapy in patients with diabetes. For example, some studies have shown a delay of up to 5 years in over 50% of patients with type 2 diabetes uncontrolled with oral antidiabetic agents. Alternative noninvasive options for the administration of insulin, such as inhaled human insulin (Exubera; insulin human [rDNA origin] Inhalation Powder) are likely to increase patient acceptance of insulin, improve glycemic control and thus reduce the overall burden of diabetes.

Key words: :

• Diabetes complications
• Diabetes mellitus, type 1
• Diabetes mellitus, type 2
• Inhaled insulin
• Insulin
• Pulmonary safety