Cipla launches India’s only inhaled insulin, Afrezza

New Delhi: Cipla Limited has announced the launch of Afrezza® (insulin human) Inhalation Powder in India.

Cipla had obtained regulatory approval from Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) late last year, for the exclusive distribution and marketing of Afrezza®, a rapid-acting orally inhaled insulin, which offers a needle-free, convenient alternative to injectable insulin therapy.

The launch of this product in India is expected to benefit many of the 10 crore adults currently living with diabetes mellitus.

The insulin inhalation powder in Afrezza® is available in single use cartridges and is delivered via an inhaler device. The process of inhaling insulin is simple — selecting the appropriate dose cartridge, loading the cartridge in the inhaler device, inhaling the insulin from the device and removing the cartridge from the device. It is typically initiated with the largest meal of the day and can be intensified as needed. Afrezza®, which is created and manufactured by MannKind Corporation (MannKind) USA, dissolves rapidly upon oral inhalation and begins lowering blood glucose within approximately 12 minutes, closely mirroring the body’s natural insulin response. By offering a needle-free, rapid-acting alternative to daily prandial injections, it is designed to support better adherence and enable quicker glycemic control for adults with both type 1 and type 2 diabetes mellitus. This differentiated delivery system also helps address the emotional and practical barriers that often lead patients to delay or discontinue insulin therapy, which is a need that leading healthcare experts continue to highlight as critical in strengthening diabetes care.

Commenting on the launch, Achin Gupta, Global Chief Operating Officer, Cipla Limited, said: “At Cipla, our purpose has always been simple – to make quality healthcare more accessible for every patient. The introduction of Afrezza ® in India reflects that responsibility. This innovation not only simplifies insulin delivery but also eases many of the emotional and practical barriers patients face with daily insulin injections. With our reach and our deep commitment to patient well-being, we hope to support millions of Indians in managing their diabetes with greater confidence and comfort.”

To address the emotional and behavioral barriers that often hinder insulin adherence, Cipla will also roll out a nationwide awareness initiative. The campaign will focus on overcoming fears around injections, complex treatment routines, and social stigma through empathetic storytelling and structured patient-support efforts. The initiative will run across digital platforms and on-ground engagements towards education, empowerment, and destigmatisation in diabetes care.