Clinical Scorecard: FDA Expands Afrezza to Pediatric Diabetes
At a Glance
| Category | Detail |
|---|---|
| Condition | Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes in Children and Adolescents |
| Key Mechanisms | Inhaled mealtime insulin delivered via Technosphere drug-delivery platform. |
| Target Population | Children and adolescents aged 6 years and older. |
| Care Setting | Outpatient, including school and sports settings. |
Key Highlights
- Afrezza is approved for children and adolescents with diabetes.
- Administered at the beginning of meals using a portable inhaler.
- Supported by phase 3 INHALE-1 trial and over 2 decades of safety and efficacy data.
- Recognized in the American Diabetes Association Standards of Care.
- Must be used with basal insulin for type 1 diabetes.
Guideline-Based Recommendations
Diagnosis
- Assess lung function before treatment initiation and annually.
Management
- Not indicated for diabetic ketoacidosis.
- Avoid use in patients with chronic lung disease or recent smoking history.
Monitoring & Follow-up
- Monitor for hypoglycemia, cough, throat pain, and lung function.
Risks
- Risk of acute bronchospasm, decreased lung function, lung cancer, severe allergic reactions, hypokalemia, and heart failure when used with thiazolidinediones.
Patient & Prescribing Data
Children and adolescents aged 6 years and older with type 1 or type 2 diabetes.
Afrezza offers a needle-free mealtime insulin option.
Clinical Best Practices
- Assess lung function prior to and during treatment.
- Educate patients and caregivers on proper inhaler use.
Related Resources & Content
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