Common questions about Afrezza (FAQ)
Q: Can Afrezza cause long-term problems with my lungs?
A: Official documents note that Afrezza causes a decline in a measure of lung function, called FEV1, over time. Because of this, patients are monitored periodically for pulmonary function. The effects of using the medication for treatment duration longer than two years have not been established in research studies.
Q: Does smoking affect how Afrezza works?
A: According to the official product information, the safety and effectiveness of Afrezza have not been established in patients who smoke. For this reason, use is not recommended in patients who currently smoke or who have recently stopped smoking.
Q: Can children or teenagers use Afrezza?
A: Afrezza is approved only for use in adult patients. The safety and effectiveness of the medicine have not been established in pediatric patients, who are those under 18 years of age.
Q: What kind of research has been done on Afrezza for managing blood sugar?
A: Studies have examined how Afrezza helps to manage blood sugar in adults with Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes. The research primarily tracks changes in chronic blood sugar indicators, such as Glycated Hemoglobin (or A1C), and patterns of post-meal glucose concentrations.
Q: Do you need a specific type of prescription to get Afrezza?
A: Regulatory documents require that all patients have a lung function test (a measure called FEV1) before starting therapy. This test must be repeated after six months and annually thereafter to monitor lung function.
Q: Does Afrezza have any risk of causing low blood sugar (hypoglycemia)?
A: Hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar, is listed as a very common adverse reaction associated with Afrezza. This risk is common to all insulin products. Severe hypoglycemia is noted as a serious risk in the official safety information.
Q: Do I need to change my diet when starting Afrezza?
A: Official administration guidelines indicate that a change in diet is one factor that may require a modification to a patient's dosage. The impact of changes in meal patterns can be reviewed with a healthcare provider.
Q: How often should blood sugar be checked when starting Afrezza?
A: While specific frequency is individualized, official documents indicate that an increased frequency of blood glucose monitoring is noted when switching insulin regimens or during changes in physical activity, diet, or illness.
Q: Is Afrezza suitable for managing high blood sugar that is not related to a meal?
A: Afrezza is classified as a rapid-acting, mealtime (prandial) insulin indicated to improve glycemic control related to food consumption. It is not recommended for the treatment of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), which is a serious, non-meal-related complication.
Q: Can I use Afrezza if I have kidney or liver problems?
A: Clinical studies have not fully examined the use of Afrezza in patients with kidney (renal) or liver (hepatic) impairment. The administration section notes that patients in these populations may require more frequent blood glucose monitoring and potentially lower dosages.
Q: Can Afrezza be taken if I have a respiratory infection like the flu or common cold?
A: Official documents advise that the presence of an acute illness, such as fever or infection, is a factor to be communicated to a healthcare provider. An illness may increase stress on the body and change the amount of diabetes medicine needed.
Q: What happens if I accidentally swallow the Afrezza powder?
A: The official Instructions for Use state that patients should not put the cartridges in their mouth and not swallow them. If mishandling occurs before inhalation, the guidelines advise removing and discarding the cartridge.
Q: How should I dispose of used Afrezza cartridges and the inhaler?
A: The official guidelines state to discard used cartridges right away and to keep all medication stored out of the reach of children. The reusable inhaler must also be discarded and replaced after 15 days of use, according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Q: Does Afrezza require a separate glucose monitor?
A: While the label does not specify a device, all insulin therapy requires blood glucose monitoring. The official label mandates increased frequency of monitoring when starting Afrezza or during dose adjustments.
Q: Does Afrezza interact with common over-the-counter medications?
A: Official guidance advises against using over-the-counter medicines that contain alcohol while using Afrezza. General regulatory guidance notes that it is important to communicate all medicines, including those available without a prescription, to a healthcare provider.
Q: Do the effects of Afrezza vary based on my meal size or composition?
A: Official administration guidelines state that dosage modifications may be needed with changes in meal patterns. This includes the macronutrient content (such as carbohydrates or fats) or the timing of food intake.
