Inhaled Insulin: An Innovation with the Potential to Transform the Management of Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes

According to the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists, more than half of the persons with diabetes are not meeting glycemic goals. Research indicates that providers as well as patients are reluctant to begin subcutaneous insulin therapy until absolutely necessary. Human inhaled insulin powder (HIIP) has been shown to be safe and efficacious when used as preprandial therapy in patients with type 1 and type 2 diabetes. HIIP gives nurse practitioners a new option that may improve their patients' acceptance of insulin therapy and improve glycemic control. The purpose of this article is to expand providers' knowledge and comfort with using HIIP as an alternative to injectable insulin.