FDA approves rapid-acting inhaled insulin for children

Article excerpt

The FDA has approved Afrezza, an inhaled insulin powder, for children and adolescents aged 6 and older with type 1 or type 2 diabetes. The rapid-acting formulation offers an alternative to injected insulin, potentially making diabetes management easier for younger patients who struggle with needle-based treatments. Afrezza was already available for adults; this approval extends its use to the pediatric population. The drug works by delivering insulin directly to the lungs, where it's absorbed into the bloodstream. For families managing childhood diabetes, the option addresses a significant barrier to compliance: needle anxiety and injection resistance.