EXUBERA INHALED INSULIN
The product of a joint development programme between Aventis
and Pfizer, Exubera is an inhaled short-acting insulin
preparation used for the treatment of type 1 and type 2
diabetes. It is the most advanced inhaled
insulin Exubera in
development and could eliminate the need for mealtime
insulin injections in diabetic patients requiring insulin
therapy. However, because of the concerns about the drug's
long-term safety, filings for regulatory approval in Europe
and the US have been put back several times to allow for
more safety data.
Exubera was developed using Nektar Therapeutics proprietary
inhalation technology. Apart from the benefit of needless
administration, Exubera inhaled insulin enters the
bloodstream more quickly than by injection. This is likely
to be beneficial when administering insulin just before
meals and may aid treatment compliance.
SPECIFICATIONS OF EXUBERA - INHALED INSULIN
Drug (brand/generic) :
Exubera
Company/licensee :
Aventis and Pfizer
Therapy class :
Rapid-acting insulin
Product description :
Inhaled insulin preparation
Current indication :
Insulin-treated diabetes
Market sector :
Diabetes
Insulin Exubera is not recommended for people with pulmonary
diseases such as asthma, bronchitis or emphysema. Studies
are still in process to assess the long-term safety of
Exubera and to further examine the risks and effectiveness
of the drug in people with lung disease.
