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Changes in Lung Function with Inhaled Insulin

Cod. A17042007

Inhaled insulin is the new method of somministration of insulin that should avoid the problems of injections and make its somministration easier. Studies are trying to find out whether this method is more reliable or not and whether this method has any collateral effect or not in order to pay attention in the future.
I'm bringing here an article concerning a study with inhaled insulin and its side effects on the respiratory functions!
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Changes in Lung Function with Inhaled Insulin

A small initial decline in function did not appear to progress beyond 3 months.

In previous short-term studies, inhaled insulin caused small declines in lung function. In this industry-sponsored trial, researchers assessed longer-term respiratory effects of inhaled insulin.

Nearly 600 adults with type 1 diabetes were randomized to receive premeal inhaled insulin (Exubera) or premeal subcutaneous short-acting insulin; both groups also received long-acting basal insulin. At 3 months, mean FEV1 had declined by 0.05 liters in the inhaled insulin group and 0.03 liters in the subcutaneous insulin group, a small but statistically significant difference. However, after 3 months (and through 24 months), FEV1 declined at the same rate in both groups. For diffusing capacity, the same pattern was noted — a small initial decline, but no further separation between groups during months 3 to 24. Inhaled-insulin recipients reported cough more frequently than subcutaneous-insulin recipients (38% vs. 13%). Glycemic control was similar in the two groups.

Comment: This study demonstrates that inhaled insulin induces small changes in pulmonary function shortly after the start of treatment. On average, however, the changes do not appear to progress after 3 months. Patients are advised to have spirometry before starting inhaled insulin, after 6 months of treatment, and annually thereafter. Inhaled insulin is not recommended for patients with underlying lung disease and is contraindicated in smokers.

— Allan S. Brett, MD

Published in Journal Watch General Medicine March 29, 2007

Citation(s):

Skyler JS et al. Two-year safety and efficacy of inhaled human insulin (Exubera) in adult patients with type 1 diabetes. Diabetes Care 2007 Mar; 30:579-85.