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Insulin, Regular, Human Inhalation Powder (INSULIN POWDER INHALER - ORAL INHALATION)

For diabetes.

Brand Name(s): Afrezza

Generic Name: Regular Human Insulin, Insulin, Regular, Human

Instructions

The insulin cartridge needs to be placed into the inhaler before each use. Please follow the instructions for the inhaler carefully.

Keep the insulin cartridge in the refrigerator until you are ready to use it. Do not freeze. Remove from the refrigerator and let it warm up to room temperature for 10 minutes before use.

DO NOT take this medicine by mouth.

Before using insulin, you should be taught by your doctor or a certified diabetes educator. Follow their instructions carefully. If you have not been trained, speak with your doctor before using this medicine.

Be sure to follow your regular meal plan and exercise as discussed with your doctor.

Place the insulin cartridge into the inhaler device. The cartridge should lie flat in the inhaler.

Once the inhaler is loaded, keep the inhaler level. Do not turn the inhaler upside down, shake it, or point the mouthpiece downwards. This may result in the loss of the insulin.

Ask your doctor, nurse or pharmacist to show you how to use this medicine correctly.

Keep the medicine in the foil pouch until you are ready to use it.

It is very important that you use your medicine every day and that you do not miss any dose of your insulin. Have a discussion with your doctor about what you should do in case you miss an insulin dose.

After 15 days of use, throw away the old inhaler device and use a new one.

Speak with your nurse or pharmacist about how long the medicine can be stored safely at room temperature or in the refrigerator before it needs to be discarded.

Drug interactions can change how medicines work or increase risk for side effects. Tell your health care providers about all medicines taken. Include prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal medicines. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist before starting or stopping any medicine.

Do not share this medicine with anyone who has not been prescribed this medicine.

Keep all appointments for medical exams and tests while on this medicine.

Cautions

Monitor your blood sugar as instructed by your doctor.

Adjust the amount of insulin only as recommended by your doctor.

Tell your doctor and pharmacist if you ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.

Do not use the medication any more than instructed.

Your ability to stay alert or to react quickly may be impaired by this medicine. Do not drive or operate machinery until you know how this medicine will affect you.

Please check with your doctor before drinking alcohol while on this medicine.

Tell the doctor or pharmacist if you are pregnant, planning to be pregnant, or breastfeeding.

This medicine passes into breast milk. Ask your doctor before breastfeeding.

Always carry an ID card or wear a medical alert bracelet showing that you are diabetic.

Carry glucose tablets or hard candy with you in case you experience low blood sugar from the insulin.

Symptoms of low blood sugar may include nausea, shaking, sweating, cold skin, fast heartbeat, hunger, and irritability.

If you have any trouble using the medicine, please tell your doctor, nurse or pharmacist.

Some patients have serious side effects from this medicine. Ask your pharmacist to show you the information from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and discuss it with you.

Side Effects

The following is a list of some common side effects from this medicine. Please speak with your doctor about what you should do if you experience these or other side effects.

  • coughing
  • hoarseness or throat irritation
  • weight gain

Call your doctor or get medical help right away if you notice any of these more serious side effects:

  • dizziness
  • numbness or tingling in hands and feet
  • fast or irregular heart beats
  • low blood sugar
  • muscle cramps or weakness
  • shakiness
  • shortness of breath
  • blurring or changes of vision
  • wheezing or difficulty breathing

A few people may have an allergic reaction to this medicine. Symptoms can include difficulty breathing, skin rash, itching, swelling, or severe dizziness. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical help quickly.

Please speak with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist if you have any questions about this medicine.