Exubera Side Effects

Generic name: insulin inhalation, rapid acting

Note: This document contains side effect information about insulin inhalation, rapid acting. Some of the dosage forms listed on this page may not apply to the brand name Exubera.

Some side effects of Exubera may not be reported. Always consult your doctor or healthcare specialist for medical advice. You may also report side effects to the FDA.

For the Consumer

Applies to insulin inhalation, rapid acting: inhalation powder

Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) is the most common side effect of insulin inhalation. Watch for signs of low blood sugar, which include headache, confusion, drowsiness, weakness, dizziness, fast heartbeat, sweating, tremor, and nausea. Carry a piece of non-dietetic hard candy or glucose tablets with you in case you have low blood sugar.

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: rash, hives, or itching; wheezing, gasping for breath; fast heartbeat; sweating; feeling light-headed or fainting.

Other less serious side effects are more likely to occur, such as:

• cough, sore throat;

• runny or stuffy nose;

• dry mouth; or

• ear pain.

Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.

For Healthcare Professionals

Applies to insulin inhalation, rapid acting: inhalation powder

Respiratory

Respiratory side effects have included respiratory tract infection, increased cough, pharyngitis, rhinitis, sinusitis, dyspnea, increased sputum, bronchitis, epistaxis, laryngitis, pneumonia, and voice alteration. In clinical trials up to two years duration, patients treated with insulin inhalation demonstrated a greater decline in pulmonary function, specifically the forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1) and the carbon monoxide diffusing capacity (DLCO), than comparator-treated patients. The mean treatment group difference in pulmonary function favoring the comparator group, was noted within the first several weeks of treatment with insulin inhalation, and did not change over the two-year treatment period.

Metabolic

Metabolic side effects have included hypoglycemia.

Gastrointestinal

Gastrointestinal side effects have included dry mouth.

General

General side effects have included chest pain.

Disclaimer: Every effort has been made to ensure that the information provided is accurate, up-to-date, and complete, but no guarantee is made to that effect. In addition, the drug information contained herein may be time sensitive and should not be utilized as a reference resource beyond the date hereof. This information does not endorse drugs, diagnose patients, or recommend therapy. This drug information is a reference resource designed as supplement to, and not a substitute for, the expertise, skill , knowledge, and judgement of healthcare practitioners in patient care. The absence of a warning for a given drug or drug combination in no way should be construed to indicate that the drug of drug combination is safe, effective, or appropriate for any given patient. Drugs.com does not assume any responsibility for any aspect of healthcare administered with the aid of information provided. The information contained herein is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. If you have questions about the drugs you are taking, check with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist.