Afrezza Works Faster Than Traditional Injectable Insulin

Afrezza is an inhalable insulin that provides a needle-free alternative to traditional injections or insulin pump therapy. It’s currently only available in the United States, but was recently approved for use in India as well.

The product delivers human insulin in dry powder form through a small, pocket-sized inhaler device. Instead of injecting insulin subcutaneously, users insert a pre-measured cartridge (available in several fixed-dose options) into the inhaler and breathe it in.

What makes Afrezza stand out is its ultra-rapid onset. Once inhaled, it begins working in as little as 2 to 3 minutes, much faster than injected rapid-acting insulins. It also leaves the body faster, typically in about 1.5 to 3 hours, which reduces the risk of insulin “stacking” and allows for more flexible dosing around meals or activity.

Because of this fast action, Afrezza is particularly helpful for managing post-meal blood sugar spikes. It doesn’t require a pre-bolus like injected insulins often do, and it may offer more control and convenience for some people.

Afrezza is currently FDA-approved for adults 18 and older, but a long-term safety and efficacy trial called INHALE-1 has been running since 2018 to assess its use in children ages 4 to 18.

I recently sat down with Ginger Vieira, a diabetes advocate and writer who’s used Afrezza for over four years. We talked about how she fits it into her treatment plan, how it compares to traditional insulin, and why she appreciates its flexibility. You can listen to the full podcast episode above or watch the video conversation below.

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Our articles and video are not medical advice—and are for educational purposes only. Always consult with a physician before making changes to your healthcare.