Products
The inhaled human insulin Exubera (Pfizer, powder inhalation) is no longer commercially available. It was withdrawn from the market in 2007 for commercial reasons. In 2014, a new product was approved in the United States; see Inhalable Insulin.
Structure and properties
Human insulin (C257H383N65O77S6, Mr = 5808 g/mol) is a polypeptide with the structure of the antidiabetic hormone produced by the pancreas in humans. The peptide consists of two chains with a total of 51 amino acids. The A chain is composed of 21 amino acids and the B chain is composed of 30 amino acids. Insulin has two disulfide bridges connecting the chains and one disulfide chain within the A chain.
Effects
Human insulin (ATC A10AF01) has blood glucose-lowering and antidiabetic properties. It promotes the uptake of blood glucose into tissues (e.g., muscle, adipose tissue) and inhibits glucose formation in the liver. The effects are based on binding to insulin receptors. Inhaled insulin has a rapid onset of action and a short duration of action.
Indications
For the treatment of type 1 or type 2 diabetes mellitus.
Dosage
According to the SmPC. The drug is inhaled within ten minutes after the start of a meal.
Contraindications
Exubera is contraindicated in hypersensitivity, in smokers, in poorly controlled, unstable, or severe asthma, and in severe COPD. For complete precautions, see the drug label.
Adverse Effects
The most common possible adverse effects include hypoglycemia, cough, dyspnea, increased sputum, throat irritation, and dry throat.
