What is Needed to Start
Inhaler
Small refillable inhaler contains a compartment for powdered insulin containing cartridges.
Cartridge
Cartridges come in three doses: 4, 8, and 12-unit doses. All color coded.
Watch and Learn
Introduction to Afrezza
How to Use Afrezza
Using Afrezza
Device Details
Affordability and Access
$$$$
Widely covered. Price range; 0-$99/month, depending on insurance coverage. $35/month for medicare and commercial insurance plans.
Data Monitoring Options
No Options
Data View Options
No Options
Duration and Storage
10 Days
Open cartridges last up to 10 days. Sealed cartridges may be stored in a refrigerator at 36°F - 46°F until the expiration date.
Vision / Auditory / Dexterity
NO text to speech
NO vibration alerts
LITTLE dexterity needed
Patient Considerations
Comfort
Many components. Have to carry multiple cartridges that can be bulky.
Active Lifestyle
Body free of devices. Does not remain attached to the body.
Avoiding Highs and Lows
Very short-acting. Absorbs quickly through the lungs to correct high blood sugar but requires attention to prevent lows.
Easy to Use
Simple design. Whistle-like device for inhaling insulin.
Easy Insulin Dosing
Less precise but easy dosing. Dosing may be less precise due to the inhaled method of dosing, but color-coded cartridges make dosing easier. Dosing can also be done based on small, medium, or large meals and can be administered 1-2 hours post meals.
Fewer Fingersticks
Frequent finger-sticks are required.
Privacy
Hideable. Small, discreet, and portable device that's not as noticeable as injections.
Frequently Asked Questions
If my patient starts on Afrezza, how can I get support with the product?
Afrezza Customer Care Team:
1-844-323-7399
Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM (ET)
Visit Afrezza for Healthcare Providers for more information
Where can I read up to date evidence about Afrezza?
"When initiating Afrezza, it is easier to add it on to their current therapy as a “trial period” rather than switching exclusively to only Afrezza. If patients like using it, they can increase how often they use it and adjust their therapy accordingly."
Recommendations for Initiating Use of Afrezza Inhaled Insulin in Individuals with Type 1 Diabetes 2018
Jeremy Pettus, MD., et al.
How can I get my patient insurance approval for Afrezza?
If your patient has health insurance: visit Beyond Type 1 for more information on how to send a prescription to the pharmacy that Mannkind works closely with, UBC Pharmacy:
UBC Pharmacy LLC
4700 N Hanley Rd Ste B
Saint Louis, MO 63134
NPI: 1962978858
Fax: 866-750-9260
Phone: 844-323-7399
Anyone in the United States can use this pharmacy to fill an Afrezza prescription.
For more information on cost: visit Mannkind - Paying for Your Afrezza.