Cipla Limited, has received regulatory approval from the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) to distribute and market Afrezza®, a groundbreaking inhaled insulin, in India. This innovation, developed by MannKind Corporation (USA), marks a significant step in diabetes care, providing a needle-free alternative for managing both type 1 and type 2 diabetes mellitus.
Afrezza®: A Game-Changer in Insulin Delivery :
Afrezza® is a rapid-acting insulin delivered via inhalation, eliminating the need for multiple daily injections. Taken at the start of a meal, it starts acting within 12 minutes and mimics the body’s natural insulin response, lasting approximately 2-3 hours. This patient-friendly solution is especially beneficial for those who are uncomfortable with needles.
A phase 3 clinical trial conducted on 216 patients in India demonstrated a significant reduction in HbA1c levels when Afrezza® was added to oral anti-diabetic medications. Afrezza® has been extensively studied globally in over 70 clinical trials involving more than 3,000 patients and has been approved in the US for more than 10 years.
“Having pioneered inhalation therapy in India, we are proud to extend our innovation portfolio to diabetes management by partnering with MannKind for the distribution of Afrezza®,” said Mr. Umang Vohra, Managing Director and Global CEO of Cipla Limited. “By reducing the need for injections, we are offering a convenient solution for people living with diabetes mellitus, helping them manage their condition more effectively.”
Cipla aims to make Afrezza® widely available across India, leveraging its robust distribution network. This initiative aligns with Cipla’s long-standing commitment to redefining patient care and improving health outcomes. MannKind will supply the product, while Cipla will oversee its sales and marketing.
For healthcare providers, Afrezza® represents a new era in diabetes management, empowering patients with a simpler, faster, and more comfortable approach to glycemic control.
