A 30-week study published in Diabetes Technology & Therapeutics reveals that combining inhaled technosphere insulin (TI) with insulin degludec effectively sustains blood sugar control in adults with type 1 diabetes. The regimen, which offers a faster onset than traditional rapid-acting insulin, maintained HbA1c levels and showed the potential to reduce post-meal hyperglycemia. Notably, 43% of participants preferred continuing the TI-degludec regimen over returning to their previous treatments.

The study, led by Dr. Roy Beck and colleagues at the JAEB Center for Health Research, tracked participants who switched from automated insulin delivery (AID) or multiple daily injections (MDI) to the TI-degludec regimen. Results showed stable HbA1c levels and consistent time-in-range metrics (52% at baseline, 54% at 30 weeks), indicating reliable long-term efficacy.

Dr. Beck highlighted that nearly half of the participants, including some previously using AID, favored the new regimen. The findings suggest TI could become a viable alternative for type 1 diabetes management.

Dr. Satish Garg, Editor-in-Chief of Diabetes Technology & Therapeutics, noted that Afrezza (the branded TI insulin) performed equally well in patients transitioning from AID to MDI, underscoring its broad applicability.

This study underscores the potential of inhaled insulin as a flexible and effective option for type 1 diabetes care. Future research may explore its long-term benefits and adoption in clinical practice, offering hope for improved quality of life for patients.