Archive · 12 Jan 2026
Inhaled Insulin Arrives in India
Doctors in India have a new tool to help people with diabetes.
Instead of using needles to give insulin, they can now use an inhaler.
This is called Afrezza.
It's a dry powder that you breathe in before meals.
It helps control blood sugar levels quickly, just like fast-acting insulin.
But it doesn't replace all insulin injections, especially for people with type 1 diabetes.
It's not for everyone, especially those with lung problems or smokers.
Doctors say it's more convenient and might help people who are scared of needles to stick to their treatment.
Inhaled insulin (Afrezza) introduced in India to address 'needle phobia' and improve insulin therapy adherence.
Absorbed through the lungs, it acts faster than conventional insulin but does not replace all injections.
Approved for adults with type 1 or type 2 diabetes, used before meals to control post-meal blood sugar levels.
Not suitable for patients with lung diseases, smokers, or recent ex-smokers; lung function tests are mandatory.
Offers convenience and comfort but may require higher doses due to bioavailability differences.
- Who
- Adults with type 1 or type 2 diabetes in India
- What
- Inhaled insulin (Afrezza) introduced as an alternative to injections
- When
- Recently introduced in India
- Where
- India
- Why
- To address 'needle phobia' and improve adherence to insulin therapy
- Product Name
- Afrezza
- Manufacturer
- Cipla
- Approved For
- Adults with type 1 or type 2 diabetes
- Usage
- Before meals to control post-meal blood sugar levels
- Contraindications
- Patients with lung diseases, smokers, and recent ex-smokers
- Lung Function Tests
- Required before starting therapy and during follow-up
- Dosage
- May require 1.5 times more units than injectable insulin