AskNadia: Afrezza’s Inhaled Insulin- One Solution to High Insulin Prices?
Click here to Listen to Nadia’s Podcast Interview With Michael Castagna, Chief Executive Officer of MannKind
I have received many questions about insulin costs. The most common concern? The price of insulin and long-term affordability.
Just recently I read an article online by NPR about a young man who phased out of his mother’s health insurance plan. He was a restaurant manager who could not afford insurance but decided to get a second job for his new monthly premium of $450. To his disappointment, he did not realize that his $6,500 deducible meant that he needed to pay this first in addition to his premium before he can afford his insulin. The tragedy? He was waiting for his paycheck to buy insulin and unfortunately, he passed away from ketoacidosis three days before receiving his check.
I cried when I read this story. My son is almost his age. Can you image as a parent how heartbreaking this is? I can’t even go there.
When the Afrezza’s press release, the makers of the inhaled insulin crossed my desk this week, I wanted to answer a call to prayers for some of my followers; to inform you of an inexpensive alternative to rapid-acting insulin for people living with Type 1 & Type 2 diabetes.
What do you think about purchasing rapid-acting insulin for 4 dollars a day? It can be done assuming you use 36 units a day. Meaning your rapid-acting insulin for 30 days will cost you $120 a month. For some, this is less than their pharmacy co-pay for one prescription. Not to mention, if you are a good candidate for inhaled insulin, you might be able to take a break from injections.
The inhaled insulin discussion is a topic you will need to have with your healthcare professional. Remember never to change your dosing therapies or brands before discussing it with your healthcare professional. Besides, they need to be on board to write the prescription.
The 4 dollars a day offer from Afrezza is good for the first 1000 candidates. Here is a link to their affordable insulin program. If the interest in this program is high, the plan will be extended. Don’t be discouraged by this late date.
If you have COPD, Asthma or are an active smoker, the inhaled insulin is not for you.
Afrezza is not indicated for people that are under 18 years of age. Although, studies are being conducted with the intention of FDA approval.
I interviewed Michael Castagna, Chief Executive Officer of MannKind, the makers of the inhaled insulin about their 4 dollar a day insulin program. The podcast will remain online for your access.
You can also see the video product demonstration as to how the Afrezza inhaled insulin works right here.
I wish you the best in health!
Nadia
Disclaimer:
Nadia’s feedback on your question is in no way intended to initiate or replace your healthcare professional’s therapy or advice. Please check in with your medical team to discuss your diabetes management concerns.
AskNadia and receive her unique perspective on your question.
About Nadia:
AskNadia (ranked #1 by Google), named “Best Diabetes Blog for 2017 by Healthline and with 24 nominations, Nadia Al-Samarrie’s efforts have made her stand out as a pioneer and leading patient advocate in the diabetes community.
Nadia was not only born into a family with diabetes but also married into one. She was propelled at a young age into “caretaker mode,” and with her knowledge of the scarcity of resources, support, and understanding for people with diabetes, co-founded Diabetes Interview, now Diabetes Health magazine.
Under her reign- Diabetes Health magazine was named one of the top 10 magazines to follow in the world for 2018 by Feedspot Blog Reader
Nadia has been featured on ABC, NBC, CBS, and other major cable networks. Her publications, medical supply business, and website have been cited, recognized and published in the San Francisco Chronicle, The Wall Street Journal, Ann Landers advice column, former Chrysler chairman Lee Iacocca, Entrepreneur magazine, Houston News, Phili.com, Brand Week, Drug Topics, and many other media outlets.
