Enter drug's generic or brand name below. Results will appear here. Note: all drug related information obtained on this page is provided by RX List.
Using the RX LIST database:
(1) Enter the drug name in the search box below and hit ENTER
(2) The rx list web site will open here with the drug search completed. Next, scroll down the page to locate the link to the drug you are searching for and then click on the link.
Exubera (insulin human rdna origin)
(insulin human [rdna origin]) Aerosol, Powder
EXUBERA (insulin human rdna origin) ® consists of blisters containing human insulin inhalation powder, which are administered using the EXUBERA (insulin human rdna origin) ® Inhaler. EXUBERA (insulin human rdna origin) blisters contain human insulin produced by recombinant DNA technology utilizing a non-pathogenic laboratory strain of Escherichia coli (K12). Chemically, human insulin has the empirical formula C257H383N65O77S6 and a molecular weight of 5808. Human insulin has the following primary amino acid sequence:
![Exubera (insulin human rdna origin)
(insulin human [rdna origin]) Structural Formula Illustration](https://images.rxlist.com/images/rxlist/exubera1.gif) |
EXUBERA (insulin human rdna origin) (insulin human [rDNA origin]) Inhalation Powder is a white to off-white powder in a unit dose blister (fill mass, see Table 1). Each unit dose blister of EXUBERA (insulin human rdna origin) contains a 1 mg or 3 mg dose of insulin (see Table 1) in a homogeneous powder formulation containing sodium citrate (dihydrate), mannitol, glycine, and sodium hydroxide. After an EXUBERA (insulin human rdna origin) blister is inserted into the inhaler, the patient pumps the handle of the inhaler and then presses a button, causing the blister to be pierced. The insulin inhalation powder is then dispersed into the chamber, allowing the patient to inhale the aerosolized powder.
Under standardized in vitro test conditions, EXUBERA (insulin human rdna origin) delivers a specific emitted dose of insulin from the mouthpiece of the inhaler (see Table 1). A fraction of the total particle mass is emitted as fine particles capable of reaching the deep lung. Up to 45% of the 1 mg blister contents, and up to 25% of the 3 mg blister contents, may be retained in the blister.
Table 1: Dose Nomenclature and Information
| Fill Mass (mg powder) |
Nominal Dose (mg insulin) |
Emitted Dose*,† (mg insulin) |
Fine Particle Dose‡,† (mg insulin) |
| 1.7 | 1.0 | 0.53 | 0.4 |
| 5.1 | 3.0 | 2.03 | 1.0 |
| Flow rate of 30 L/min for 2.5 seconds † Emitted dose and fine particle dose information are not intended to predict actual pharmacodynamic response. ‡Flow rate of 28.3 L/min for 3 seconds |
|||
The actual amount of insulin delivered to the lung will depend on individual patient factors, such as inspiratory flow profile. In vitro, emitted aerosol metrics are unaffected at flow rates above 10 L/min.
EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) is indicated for the treatment of adult patients with diabetes mellitus for the control of hyperglycemia. EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) has an onset of action similar to rapid-acting insulin analogs and has a duration of glucose-lowering activity comparable to subcutaneously administered regular human insulin. In patients with type 1 diabetes, EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) should be used in regimens that include a longer-acting insulin. In patients with type 2 diabetes, EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) can be used as monotherapy or in combination with oral agents or longer-acting insulins.
EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) , like rapid-acting insulin analogs, has a more rapid onset of glucose-lowering activity compared to subcutaneously injected regular human insulin. EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) has a duration of glucose-lowering activity comparable to subcutaneously injected regular human insulin and longer than rapid-acting insulin. EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) doses should be administered immediately prior to meals (no more than 10 minutes prior to each meal).
In patients with type 1 diabetes, EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) should be used in regimens that include a longer-acting insulin. For patients with type 2 diabetes, EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) may be used as monotherapy or in combination with oral agents or longer-acting insulin.
Because of the effect of EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) on pulmonary function, all patients should have pulmonary function assessed prior to initiating therapy with EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) . Periodic monitoring of pulmonary function is recommended for patients being treated with EXUBERA (see PRECAUTIONS, Pulmonary Function).
EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) is intended for administration by inhalation and must only be administered using the EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) ® Inhaler. Refer to the EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) Medication Guide for a description of the EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) ® Inhaler and for instructions on how to use the inhaler.
The initial dosage of EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) should be individualized and determined based on the physician's advice in accordance with the needs of the patient. Recommended initial pre-meal doses are based on clinical trials in which patients were requested to eat three meals per day. Initial pre-meal doses may be calculated using the following formula: [Body weight (kg) X 0.05 mg/kg = pre-meal dose (mg)] rounded down to the nearest whole milligram number (e.g., 3.7 mg rounded down to 3 mg).
Approximate guidelines for initial, pre-meal EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) doses, based on patient body weight, are indicated in Table 7:
Table 7: Approximate Guidelines for Initial, Pre-Meal EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin])
Dose (based on patient body weight) Human EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) Inhaled Insulin Doses Ranging
| Patient Weight (in kg) | Patient Weight (in lb) | Initial Dose (in lb) per meal | Number of 1 mg per Dose | Number of 3 Blisters per Dose |
| 30 to 39.9 kg | 66 - 87 lb | 1 mg per meal | 1 | - |
| 40 to 59.9 kg | 88 - 132 lb | 2 mg per meal | 2 | - |
| 60 to 79.9 kg | 133 - 176 lb | 3 mg per meal | - | 1 |
| 80 to 99.9 kg | 177 - 220 lb | 4 mg per meal | 1 | 1 |
| 100 to 119.9 kg | 221- 264 lb | 5 mg per meal | 2 | 1 |
| 120 to 139.9 kg | 265 - 308 lb | 6 mg per meal | - | 2 |
A 1 mg blister of EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) inhaled insulin is approximately equivalent to 3 IU of subcutaneously injected regular human insulin. A 3 mg blister of EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) inhaled insulin is approximately equivalent to 8 IU of subcutaneously injected regular human insulin. Table 8provides the approximate IU dose of regular subcutaneous human insulin for EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) inhaled insulin doses from 1 mg to 6 mg.
Table 8: Approximate Equivalent IU Dose of Regular Human
Subcutaneous Insulin for EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) Inhaled Insulin Doses Ranging from 1 mg to
6 mg
| Dose (mg) | Approximate Regular Insulin SC Dose in IU | Number of 1 mg EXUBERA Blisters per Dose | Number of 3 mg EXUBERA Blisters per Dose |
| 1 mg | 3 | 1 | - |
| 2 mg | 6 | 2 | - |
| 3 mg | 8 | - | 1 |
| 4 mg | 11 | 1 | 1 |
| 5 mg | 14 | 2 | 1 |
| 6 mg | 16 | - | 2 |
Patients should combine 1 mg and 3 mg blisters so that the least number of blisters per dose are taken (e.g., a 4 mg dose should be administered as one 1 mg blister and one 3 mg blister). Consecutive inhalation of three 1 mg unit dose blisters results in significantly greater insulinexposure than inhalation of one 3 mg unit dose blister. Therefore, three 1 mg doses should notbe substituted for one 3 mg dose (see CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY, Pharmacokinetics).When a patient is stabilized on a dosing regimen that includes 3 mg blisters, and the 3 mg blisters become temporarily unavailable, the patient can temporarily substitute two 1 mg blisters for one 3 mg blister. Blood glucose should be monitored closely.
As with all insulins, additional factors that should be taken into consideration when determining the EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) starting dose include, but are not limited to, patient's current glycemic control, previous response to insulin, duration of diabetes, and dietary and exercise habits.
After initiating EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) therapy, as with other glucose-lowering agents, dose adjustment may be required based on the patient's need (e.g., blood glucose concentrations, meal size and nutrient composition, time of day and recent or anticipated exercise). Each patient should be titrated to their optimal dosage based on blood glucose monitoring results.
As for all insulins, the time course of EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) action may vary in different individuals or at different times in the same individual.
EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) may be used during intercurrent respiratory illness (e.g., bronchitis, upper respiratory tract infection, rhinitis). Close monitoring of blood glucose concentrations and dose adjustment may be required on an individual basis. Inhaled medicinal products (e.g. bronchodilators) should be administered prior to administration of EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) .
EXUBERA (insulin human [rDNA origin]) Inhalation Powder is available in 1 mg and 3 mg unit dose blisters. The blisters are dispensed on perforated cards of six unit dose blisters (PVC/Aluminum). The two strengths are differentiated by color print and tactile marks that can be differentiated by touch. The 1 mg blisters and respective perforated cards are printed with green ink and the cards are marked with one raised bar. The 3 mg blisters and respective perforated cards are printed with blue ink and the cards are marked with three raised bars.
Five blister cards are packaged in a clear plastic (PET) thermoformed tray. Each PET tray also contains a desiccant and is covered with a clear plastic (PET) lid. The tray of five blister cards (30 unit dose blisters) is sealed in a foil laminate pouch with a desiccant.
EXUBERA (insulin human [rDNA origin]) Inhalation Powder blisters, an EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) ® Inhaler, and replacement EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) ® Release Units are required to initiate therapy with EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) and are provided in the EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) Kit. A fully assembled EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) ® Inhaler consists of the inhaler base, a chamber, and an EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) ® Release Unit. A fully assembled Inhaler is packaged with a replacement Chamber and is available in the EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) Kit and as a separate unit. The Chamber is also available as an individual component.
EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) ® Release Units are individually packaged in a sealed thermoformed tray. One EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) ® Release Unit is included in each fully assembled Inhaler. Two additional Release Units are provided in the EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) Kit and in each Combination Pack. EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) Release Units are also available individually.
See Tables 9 and 10 for a description of these configurations.
Table 9
| EXUBERA (insulin human [rDNA origin]) Inhalation Powder is available as follows: | ||
| Description | Contents | NDC |
| EXUBERA KIT | 1 EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) Inhaler 1 Replacement Chamber 1 mg × 180 blisters 3 mg × 90 blisters 2 EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) ® Release Units |
0069-0050-85 |
| EXUBERA Combination Pack 12 | 1 mg × 90 blisters 3 mg × 90 blisters 2 EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) ® Release Units |
0069-0050-19 |
| EXUBERA Combination Pack 15 | 1 mg × 180 blisters 3 mg × 90 blisters 2 EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) ® Release Units |
0069-0050-53 |
| EXUBERA 1 mg Patient Pack | 90 × 1 mg 2 EXUBERA® Release Units |
0069-0707-37 |
| EXUBERA 3 mg Patient Pack | 90 × 3 mg 2 EXUBERA® Release Units |
0069-0724-37 |
Table 10
| EXUBERA® Inhaler and Components are available as follows: | ||
| Description | Contents | NDC |
| EXUBERA® Inhaler & Chamber | 1 EXUBERA® Inhaler 1 Replacement Chamber |
0069-0054-19 |
| EXUBERA® Release Units | 2 EXUBERA® Release Units | 0069-0097-41 |
| EXUBERA® Chamber | 1 Replacement Chamber | 0069-0061-19 |
Not in-use (Unopened): Store at controlled room temperature, 25°C (77°F); excursions permitted to 15-30°C (59-86°F) [see USP Controlled Room Temperature]. Do not freeze. Do not refrigerate.
In-use: Once the foil overwrap is opened, unit dose blisters should be protected from moisture, stored at 25°C (77°F); excursions permitted to 15-30°C (59-86°F) [see USP Controlled Room Temperature]. Do not freeze. Do not refrigerate. Unit dose blisters should be used within 3 months after opening the foil overwrap. Return the blisters to the overwrap to protect from moisture. Additional care should be taken to avoid humid environments, e.g. steamy bathroom following a shower.
Discard blister if frozen.
Store at controlled room temperature, 25°C (77°F); excursions permitted to 15-30°C (59-86°F) [see USP Controlled Room Temperature]. Do not freeze. Do not refrigerate.
The EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) ® Inhaler can be used for up to 1 year from the date of first use.
Replacing The EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) ® Release Unit
The EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) ® Release Unit in the EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) ® Inhaler should be changed every 2 weeks.
Keep out of reach of children
Distributed by: Pfizer Labs, Divisions of Pfizer Inc, NY, NY 10017. FDA Rev date: 9/29/2008
The safety of EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) alone, or in combination with subcutaneous insulin or oral agents, has been evaluated in approximately 2500 adult patients with type 1 or type 2 diabetes who were exposed to EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) . Approximately 2000 patients were exposed to EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) for greater than 6 months and more than 800 patients were exposed for more than 2 years.
Non-respiratory adverse events reported in ≥ 1% of 1977 EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) -treated patients in controlled Phase 2/3 clinical studies, regardless of causality, include (but are not limited to) the following:
Metabolic and Nutritional: hypoglycemia (see WARNINGS and PRECAUTIONS)
Body as a whole: chest pain
Digestive: dry mouth
Special senses: otitis media (type 1 pediatric diabetics)
The rates and incidence of hypoglycemia were comparable between EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) and subcutaneous regular human insulin in patients with type 1 and type 2 diabetes. In type 2 patients who were not adequately controlled with single oral agent therapy, the addition of EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) was associated with a higher rate of hypoglycemia than was the addition of a second oral agent.
A range of different chest symptoms were reported as adverse reactions and were grouped under the non-specific term chest pain. These events occurred in 4.7% of EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) -treated patients and 3.2% of patients in comparator groups. The majority ( > 90%) of these events were reported as mild or moderate. Two patients in the EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) and one in the comparator group discontinued treatment due to chest pain. The incidence of all-causality adverse events related to coronary artery disease, such as angina pectoris or myocardial infarction was comparable in the EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) (0.7% angina pectoris; 0.7% myocardial infarction) and comparator (1.3% angina pectoris; 0.7% myocardial infarction) treatment groups.
Dry mouth was reported in 2.4% of EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) -treated patients and 0.8% of patients in comparator groups. Nearly all ( > 98%) of dry mouth reported was mild or moderate. No patients discontinued treatment due to dry mouth.
Pediatric type 1 diabetics in EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) groups experienced adverse events related to the ear more frequently than did pediatric type 1 diabetics in treatment groups receiving only subcutaneous insulin. These events included otitis media (EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) 6.5%; SC 3.4%), ear pain (EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) 3.9%; SC 1.4%), and ear disorder (EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) 1.3%; SC 0%).
Table 6 shows the incidence of respiratory adverse events for each treatment group that were reported in ≥ 1% of any treatment group in controlled Phase 2 and 3 clinical studies, regardless of causality.
Table 6: Respiratory Adverse Events Reported in ≥ 1% of
Any Treatment Group in Controlled Phase 2 and 3 Clinical Studies, Regardless
of Causality
| Percent of Patients Reporting Event | |||||
| Type 1 Diabetes | Type 2 Diabetes | ||||
| Adverse Event | EXUBERA N = 698 |
SC N= 705 |
EXUBERA N = 1279 |
SC N = 488 |
OAs N = 644 |
| Respiratory Tract Infection | 43.3 | 42.0 | 29.2 | 38.1 | 19.7 |
| Cough Increased | 29.5 | 8.8 | 21.9 | 10.2 | 3.7 |
| Pharyngitis | 18.2 | 16.6 | 9.5 | 9.6 | 5.9 |
| Rhinitis | 14.5 | 10.9 | 8.8 | 10.5 | 3.0 |
| Sinusitis | 10.3 | 7.4 | 5.4 | 10.0 | 2.3 |
| Respiratory Disorder | 7.4 | 4.1 | 6.1 | 10.2 | 1.7 |
| Dyspnea | 4.4 | 0.9 | 3.6 | 2.5 | 1.4 |
| Sputum Increased | 3.9 | 1.3 | 2.8 | 1.0 | 0.5 |
| Bronchitis | 3.2 | 4.1 | 5.4 | 3.9 | 4.0 |
| Asthma | 1.3 | 1.3 | 2.0 | 2.3 | 0.5 |
| Epistaxis | 1.3 | 0.4 | 1.2 | 0.4 | 0.8 |
| Laryngitis | 1.1 | 0.4 | 0.5 | 0.4 | 0.3 |
| Pneumonia | 0.9 | 1.1 | 0.9 | 1.6 | 0.6 |
| Voice Alteration | 0.1 | 0.1 | 1.3 | 0.0 | 0.3 |
| SC = subcutaneous insulin comparator; OA = oral agent comparators | |||||
In 3 clinical studies, patients who completed a cough questionnaire reported that the cough tended to occur within seconds to minutes after EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) inhalation, was predominantly mild in severity and was rarely productive in nature. The incidence of this cough decreased with continued EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) use. In controlled clinical studies, 1.2% of patients discontinued EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) treatment due to cough.
Nearly all ( > 97%) of dyspnea was reported as mild or moderate. A small number of EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) -treated patients (0.4%) discontinued treatment due to dyspnea compared to 0.1% of comparator-treated patients.
Other Respiratory Adverse Events - Pharyngitis, Sputum Increased and Epistaxis
The majority of these events were reported as mild or moderate. A small number of EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) -treated patients discontinued treatment due to pharyngitis (0.2%) and sputum increased (0.1%); no patients discontinued treatment due to epistaxis.
The effect of EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) on the respiratory system has been evaluated in over 3800 patients in controlled phase 2 and 3 clinical studies (in which 1977 patients were treated with EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) ). In randomized, open-label clinical trials up to two years duration, patients treated with EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) 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 differences in FEV1 and DLCO , were noted within the first several weeks of treatment with EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) , and did not progress over the two year treatment period. In one completed controlled clinical trial in patients with type 2 diabetes following two years of treatment with EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) , patients showed resolution of the treatment group difference in FEV1 six weeks after discontinuation of therapy. Resolution of the effect of EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) on pulmonary function in patients with type 1 diabetes has not been studied after long-term treatment.
Figures 3 through 6 display the mean FEV 1 and DLCO change from baseline versus time from two ongoing randomized, open-label, two year studies in 580 patients with type 1 and 620 patients with type 2 diabetes.
Figure 3: Change from Baseline FEV1 (L) in Patients
with Type 1 Diabetes (Mean +/-Standard Deviation)
 |
Figure 4: Change from Baseline FEV1 (L) in Patients
with Type 2 Diabetes (Mean +/- Standard Deviation)
 |
Following 2 years of EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) treatment in patients with type 1 and type 2 diabetes, the difference between treatment groups for the mean change from baseline FEV1 was approximately 40 mL, favoring the comparator.
Figure 5: Change from Baseline DLco (mL/min/mmHg) in Patients
with Type 1 Diabetes (Mean +/- Standard Deviation)
 |
Figure 6: Change from Baseline DLco (mL/min/mmHg) in Patients
with Type 2 Diabetes (Mean +/- Standard Deviation)
 |
Following 2 years of EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) treatment, the difference between treatment groups for themean change from baseline DLCO was approximately 0.5mL/min/mmHg (type 1 diabetes), favoring the comparator, and approximately 0.1mL/min/mmHg (type 2 diabetes), favoring EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) .
During the two-year clinical trials, individual patients experienced notable declines in pulmonary function in both treatment groups. A decline from baseline FEV1 of ≥ 20% at last observation occurred in 1.5% of EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) -treated and 1.3% of comparator-treated patients. A decline from baseline DLCO of ≥ 20% at last observation occurred in 5.1% of EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) - treated and 3.6% of comparator treated patients.
A number of substances affect glucose metabolism and may require insulin dose adjustment and particularly close monitoring.
The following are examples of substances that may reduce the blood glucose-lowering effect of insulin that may result in hyperglycemia: corticosteroids, danazol, diazoxide, diuretics, sympathomimetic agents (e.g., epinephrine, albuterol, terbutaline), glucagon, isoniazid, phenothiazine derivatives, somatropin, thyroid hormones, estrogens, progestogens (e.g., in oral contraceptives), protease inhibitors, and atypical antipsychotic medications (e.g., olanzapine and clozapine).
The following are examples of substances that may increase the blood glucose-lowering effect of insulin and susceptibility to hypoglycemia: oral antidiabetic products, ACE inhibitors, disopyramide, fibrates, fluoxetine, MAO inhibitors, pentoxifylline, propoxyphene, salicylates, and sulfonamide antibiotics.
Beta-blockers, clonidine, lithium salts, and alcohol may either increase or reduce the blood glucose-lowering effect of insulin. Pentamidine may cause hypoglycemia, which may sometimes be followed by hyperglycemia.
In addition, under the influence of sympatholytic medicinal products such as beta-blockers, clonidine, guanethidine, and reserpine, the signs and symptoms of hypoglycemia may be reduced or absent.
Bronchodilators and other inhaled products may alter the absorption of inhaled human insulin (see CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY, Special Populations). Consistent timing of dosing of bronchodilators relative to EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) administration, close monitoring of blood glucose concentrations and dose titration as appropriate are recommended.
EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) differs from regular human insulin by its rapid onset of action. When used as mealtime insulin, the dose of EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) should be given within 10 minutes before a meal.
Hypoglycemia is the most commonly reported adverse event of insulin therapy, including EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) . The timing of hypoglycemia may differ among various insulin formulations.
Patients with type 1 diabetes also require a longer-acting insulin to maintain adequate glucose control.
Any change of insulin should be made cautiously and only under medical supervision. Changes in insulin strength, manufacturer, type (e.g., regular, NPH, analogs), or species (animal, human) may result in the need for a change in dosage. Concomitant oral antidiabetic treatment may need to be adjusted.
Glucose monitoring is recommended for all patients with diabetes.
Because of the effect of EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) on pulmonary function, all patients should have pulmonaryfunction assessed prior to initiating therapy with EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) (see PRECAUTIONS: Pulmonary Function).
The use of EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) in patients with underlying lung disease, such as asthma or COPD, is not recommended because the safety and efficacy of EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) in this population have not been established (see PRECAUTIONS: Underlying Lung Disease).
In clinical trials of Exubera (insulin human [rdna origin]) , there have been 6 newly diagnosed cases of primary lung malignancies among Exubera (insulin human [rdna origin]) -treated patients, and 1 newly diagnosed case among comparator-treated patients. There has also been 1 postmarketing report of a primary lung malignancy in an Exubera (insulin human [rdna origin]) -treated patient. In controlled clinical trials of Exubera (insulin human [rdna origin]) , the incidence of new primary lung cancer per 100 patient-years of study drug exposure was 0.13 (5 cases over 3800 patient-years) for Exubera (insulin human [rdna origin]) -treated patients and 0.03 (1 case over 3800 patient-years) for comparator-treated patients. There were too few cases to determine whether the emergence of these events is related to Exubera (insulin human [rdna origin]) . All patients who were diagnosed with lung cancer had a prior history of cigarette smoking.
As with all insulin preparations, the time course of EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) action may vary in different individuals or at different times in the same individual. Adjustment of dosage of any insulin may be necessary if patients change their physical activity or their usual meal plan. Insulin requirements may be altered during intercurrent conditions such as illness, emotional disturbances, or stress.
As with all insulin preparations, hypoglycemic reactions may be associated with theadministration of EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) . Rapid changes in serum glucose concentrations may induce symptoms similar to hypoglycemia in persons with diabetes, regardless of the glucose value. Early warning symptoms of hypoglycemia may be different or less pronounced under certain conditions, such as long duration of diabetes, diabetic nerve disease, use of medications such as beta-blockers, or intensified diabetes control (see PRECAUTIONS: DRUG INTERACTIONS). Such situations may result in severe hypoglycemia (and, possibly, loss of consciousness) prior to patients' awareness of hypoglycemia.
Studies have not been performed in patients with renal impairment. As with other insulin preparations, the dose requirements for EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) may be reduced in patients with renal impairment (see CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY, Special Populations).
Studies have not been performed in patients with hepatic impairment. As with other insulin preparations, the dose requirements for EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) may be reduced in patients with hepatic impairment (see CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY, Special Populations).
In clinical studies, the overall incidence of allergic reactions in patients treated with EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) was similar to that in patients using subcutaneous regimens with regular human insulin.
As with other insulin preparations, rare, but potentially serious, generalized allergy to insulin may occur, which may cause rash (including pruritus) over the whole body, shortness of breath, wheezing, reduction in blood pressure, rapid pulse, or sweating. Severe cases of generalized allergy, including anaphylactic reactions, may be life threatening. If such reactions occur from EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) , EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) should be stopped and alternative therapies considered.
Insulin antibodies may develop during treatment with all insulin preparations including EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) . In clinical studies of EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) where the comparator was subcutaneous insulin, increases in insulin antibody levels (as reflected by assays of insulin binding activity) were significantly greater for patients who received EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) than for patients who received subcutaneous insulin only. No clinical consequences of these antibodies were identified over the time period of clinical studies of EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) ; however, the long-term clinical significance of this increase in antibody formation is unknown.
In clinical trials up to two years duration, patients treated with EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) 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 EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) , and did not change over the two year treatment period (See ADVERSE REACTIONS: Pulmonary Function).
During the controlled clinical trials, individual patients experienced notable declines in pulmonary function in both treatment groups. A decline from baseline FEV1 of ≥ 20% at last observation occurred in 1.5% of EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) -treated and 1.3% of comparator-treated patients. A decline from baseline DLCO of ≥ 20% at last observation occurred in 5.1% of EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) - treated and 3.6% of comparator treated patients.
Because of the effect of EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) on pulmonary function, all patients should have spirometry (FEV1) assessed prior to initiating therapy with EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) . Assessment of DLCO should be considered. The efficacy and safety of EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) in patients with baseline FEV1 or DLCO < 70% predicted have not been established and the use of EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) in this population is not recommended.
Assessment of pulmonary function (e.g., spirometry) is recommended after the first 6 months of therapy, and annually thereafter, even in the absence of pulmonary symptoms. In patients who have a decline of ≥ 20% in FEV1 from baseline, pulmonary function tests should be repeated. If the ≥ 20% decline from baseline FEV1 is confirmed, EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) should be discontinued. The presence of pulmonary symptoms and lesser declines in pulmonary function may require more frequent monitoring of pulmonary function and consideration of discontinuation of EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) .
The use of EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) in patients with underlying lung disease, such as asthma or COPD, is not recommended because the efficacy and safety of EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) in this population have not been established.
Bronchospasm has been rarely reported in patients taking EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) . Patients experiencing such a reaction should discontinue EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) and seek medical evaluation immediately. Re- administration of EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) requires a careful risk evaluation, and should only be done under close medical monitoring with appropriate clinical facilities available.
EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) has been administered to patients with intercurrent respiratory illness (e.g. bronchitis, upper respiratory tract infections, rhinitis) during clinical studies. In patients experiencing these conditions, 3-4% temporarily discontinued EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) therapy. There was no increased risk of hypoglycemia or worsened glycemic control observed in EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) -treated patients compared to patients treated with subcutaneous insulin. During intercurrent respiratory illness, close monitoring of blood glucose concentrations, and dose adjustment, may be required.
Patients should be instructed on self-management procedures including glucose monitoring;proper EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) inhalation technique; and hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia management. Patients must be instructed on handling of special situations such as intercurrent conditions (illness, stress, or emotional disturbances), an inadequate or skipped insulin dose, inadvertent administration of an increased insulin dose, inadequate food intake, or skipped meals. Refer patients to the EXUBERA Patient Medication Guide for additional information.
Patients should be informed that in clinical studies, treatment with EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) was associated with small, non-progressive mean declines in pulmonary function relative to comparator treatments. Because of the effect of EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) on pulmonary function, pulmonary functiontests are recommended prior to initiating treatment with EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) . Following initiation of therapy, periodic pulmonary function tests are recommended (see PRECAUTIONS, Respiratory, Pulmonary Function).
Patients should inform their physician if they have a history of lung disease, because the use of EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) is not recommended in patients with underlying lung disease (e.g., asthma or COPD), and is contraindicated in patients with poorly controlled lung disease.
Women with diabetes should be advised to inform their doctor if they are pregnant or are contemplating pregnancy.
Two-year carcinogenicity studies in animals have not been performed. Insulin was not mutagenic in the Ames bacterial reverse mutation test in the presence and absence of metabolic activation.
In Sprague-Dawley rats, a 6-month repeat-dose toxicity study was conducted with insulin inhalation powder at doses up to 5.8 mg/kg/day (compared to the clinical starting dose of 0.15 mg/kg/day, the rat high dose was 39 times or 8.3 times the clinical dose, based on either a mg/kg or a mg/m2 body surface area comparison). In Cynomolgus monkeys, a 6-month repeat-dose toxicity study was conducted with inhaled insulin at doses up to 0.64 mg/kg/day. Compared to the clinical starting dose of 0.15 mg/kg/day, the monkey high dose was 4.3 times or 1.4 times the clinical dose, based on either a mg/kg or a mg/m2 body surface area comparison. These were maximum tolerated doses based on hypoglycemia.
Compared to control animals, there were no treatment-related adverse effects in either specieson pulmonary function, gross or microscopic morphology of the respiratory tract or bronchial lymph nodes. Similarly, there was no effect on cell proliferation indices in alveolar orbronchiolar area of the lung in either species.
Because recombinant human insulin is identical to the endogenous hormone, reproductive/fertility studies were not performed in animals.
Pregnancy Category C
Animal reproduction studies have not been conducted with EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) . It is also not known whether EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman or whether EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) can affect reproductive capacity. EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) should be given to a pregnant woman only if clearly needed.
Many drugs, including human insulin, are excreted in human milk. For this reason, caution should be exercised when EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) is administered to a nursing woman. Patients with diabetes who are lactating may require adjustments in EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) dose, meal plan, or both.
Long-term safety and effectiveness of EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) in pediatric patients have not been established (see CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY, Special Populations).
In controlled Phase 2/3 clinical studies (n=1975), EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) was administered to 266 patients ≥ 65 years of age and 30 patients ≥ 75 years of age. The majority of these patients had type 2 diabetes. The change in HbA 1C and rate of hypoglycemia did not differ by age.
Hypoglycemia may occur as a result of an excess of insulin relative to food intake, energy expenditure, or both.
Mild to moderate episodes of hypoglycemia usually can be treated with oral glucose. Adjustments in drug dosage, meal patterns, or exercise, may be needed.
Severe episodes of hypoglycemia with coma, seizure, or neurologic impairment may be treated with intramuscular/subcutaneous glucagon or concentrated intravenous glucose. Sustained carbohydrate intake and observation may be necessary because hypoglycemia may recur after apparent clinical recovery.
EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) is contraindicated in patients hypersensitive to EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) or one of its excipients. EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) is contraindicated in patients who smoke or who have discontinued smoking less than 6 months prior to starting EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) therapy. If a patient starts or resumes smoking, EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) must be discontinued immediately due to the increased risk of hypoglycemia, and an alternative treatment must be utilized (see CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY, Special Populations, Smoking). The safety and efficacy of EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) in patients who smoke have not been established.
EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) is contraindicated in patients with unstable or poorly controlled lung disease, because of wide variations in lung function that could affect the absorption of EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) and increase the risk of hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia.
The primary activity of insulin is regulation of glucose metabolism. Insulin lowers blood glucose concentrations by stimulating peripheral glucose uptake by skeletal muscle and fat, and by inhibiting hepatic glucose production. Insulin inhibits lipolysis in the adipocyte, inhibits proteolysis, and enhances protein synthesis.
EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) delivers insulin by oral inhalation. The insulin is absorbed as quickly as subcutaneously administered rapid-acting insulin analogs and more quickly than subcutaneously administered regular human insulin in healthy subjects and in patients with type 1 or type 2 diabetes (see Figure 1).
Figure 1: Mean Changes in Free Insulin Serum Concentrations
(µU/mL) in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Following Administration of Single
Doses of Inhaled Insulin from EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) (6 mg) and Subcutaneous Regular Human
Insulin (18U)
 |
In clinical studies in patients with type 1 and type 2 diabetes, after inhalation of EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) , serum insulin reached peak concentration more quickly than after subcutaneous injection of regular human insulin, 49 minutes (range 30 to 90 minutes) compared to 105 minutes (range60 to 240 minutes), respectively.
In clinical studies, the absorption of subcutaneous regular human insulin declined with increasing patient body mass index (BMI). However, the absorption of insulin following inhalation of EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) was independent of BMI.
In a study in healthy subjects, systemic insulin exposure (AUC and C max) following administration of EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) increased with dose over a range of 1 to 6 mg when administered as combinations of 1 and 3 mg blisters.
In a study where the dosage form of three 1 mg blisters was compared with one 3 mg blister, C and AUC after administration of three 1 mg blisters were approximately 30% and 40% max greater, respectively, than that after administration of one 3 mg blister (see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION).
Because recombinant human insulin is identical to endogenous insulin, the systemic distribution and elimination are expected to be the same. However, this has not been confirmed for EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) .
EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) , like subcutaneously administered rapid-acting insulin analogs, has a more rapid onset of glucose-lowering activity than subcutaneously administered regular human insulin. In healthy volunteers, the duration of glucose-lowering activity for EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) was comparable to subcutaneously administered regular human insulin and longer than subcutaneously administered rapid-acting insulin analogs (see Figure 2).
Figure 2. Mean Glucose Infusion Rate (GIR) Normalized to
GIRmax for Each Subject Treatment Versus Time in Healthy Volunteers
 |
*Determined as amount of glucose infused to maintain constant plasma glucose concentrations, normalized to maximum values (percent of maximum values); indicative of insulin activity.
When EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) is inhaled, the onset of glucose-lowering activity in healthy volunteers occurs within 10-20 minutes. The maximum effect on glucose lowering is exerted approximately 2 hours after inhalation. The duration of glucose-lowering activity is approximately 6 hours.
In patients with type 1 or type 2 diabetes, EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) has a greater glucose-lowering effect within the first two hours after dosing when compared with subcutaneously administered regular human insulin.
The intra-subject variability of glucose-lowering activity of EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) is generally comparable to that of subcutaneously administered regular human insulin in patients with type 1 and 2 diabetes.
In children (6-11 years) and adolescents (12-17 years) with type 1 diabetes, time to peak insulin concentration for EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) was achieved faster than for subcutaneous regular human insulin, which is consistent with observations in adult patients with type 1 diabetes.
There are no apparent differences in the pharmacokinetic properties of EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) when comparing patients over the age of 65 years and younger adult patients.
In subjects with and without diabetes, no apparent differences in the pharmacokinetic properties of EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) were observed between men and women.
A study was performed in 25 healthy Caucasian and Japanese non-diabetic subjects to compare the pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties of EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) , versus subcutaneous injection of regular human insulin. The pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties of EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) were comparable between the two populations.
The absorption of EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) is independent of patient BMI.
The effect of renal impairment on the pharmacokinetics of EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) has not been studied. Careful glucose monitoring and dose adjustments of insulin may be necessary in patients with renal dysfunction (see PRECAUTIONS, Renal Impairment).
The effect of hepatic impairment on the pharmacokinetics of EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) has not been studied. Careful glucose monitoring and dose adjustments of insulin may be necessary in patients with hepatic dysfunction (see PRECAUTIONS, Hepatic Impairment).
The absorption of EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) in pregnant patients with gestational and pre-gestational type 2 diabetes was consistent with that in non-pregnant patients with type 2 diabetes (see PRECAUTIONS, Pregnancy).
In smokers, the systemic insulin exposure for EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) is expected to be 2 to 5 fold higher than in non-smokers. EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) is contraindicated in patients who smoke or who have discontinued smoking less than 6 months prior to starting EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) therapy. If a patient starts or resumes smoking, EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) must be discontinued immediately due to the increased risk of hypoglycemia, and an alternative treatment must be utilized (see CONTRAINDICATIONS).
In clinical studies of EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) in 123 patients (69 of whom were smokers), smokersexperienced a more rapid onset of glucose-lowering action, greater maximum effect, and a greater total glucose-lowering effect (particularly during the first 2-3 hours after dosing), compared to non-smokers.
In contrast to the increase in insulin exposure following active smoking, when EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) was administered to 30 healthy non-smoking volunteers following 2 hours of exposure to passive cigarette smoke in a controlled experimental setting, insulin AUC and Cmax were reduced by approximately 20% and 30%, respectively. The pharmacokinetics of EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) have not been studied in nonsmokers who are chronically exposed to passive cigarette smoke.
The use of EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) in patients with underlying lung disease, such as asthma or COPD, is not recommended because the safety and efficacy of EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) in this population have not been established (see WARNINGS). The use of EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) is contraindicated in patients withunstable or poorly controlled lung disease, because of wide variations in lung function that could affect the absorption of EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) and increase the risk of hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia (see CONTRAINDICATIONS).
In a pharmacokinetic study in 24 non-diabetic subjects with mild asthma, the absorption of insulin following administration of EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) , in the absence of treatment with abronchodilator, was approximately 20% lower than the absorption seen in subjects without asthma. However, in a study in 24 non-diabetic subjects with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), the systemic exposure following administration of EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) was approximately two-fold higher than that in normal subjects without COPD (see PRECAUTIONS, Underlying Lung Disease).
Administration of albuterol 30 minutes prior to administration of EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) in non-diabetic subjects with both mild asthma (n=36) and moderate asthma (n=31) resulted in a mean increase in insulin AUC and C of between 25 and 50% compared to when EXUBERA was max administered alone (see PRECAUTIONS: DRUG INTERACTIONS).
The safety and efficacy of EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) has been studied in approximately 2500 adult patients with type 1 and type 2 diabetes. The primary efficacy parameter for most studies was glycemic control, as measured by the reduction from baseline in hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c).
A 24-week, randomized, open-label, active-control study (Study A) was conducted in patients with type 1 diabetes to assess the safety and efficacy of EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) administered pre-mealthree times daily (TID) with a single nighttime injection of Humulin ® U Ultralente ® (humaninsulin extended zinc suspension) (n = 136). The comparator treatment was subcutaneous regular human insulin administered twice daily (BID) (pre-breakfast and pre-dinner) with BID injection of NPH human insulin (human insulin isophane suspension) (n = 132). In this study, the mean age was 38.2 years (range: 20-64) and 52% of the subjects were male.
A second 24-week, randomized, open-label, active-control study (Study B) was conducted in patients with type 1 diabetes to assess the safety and efficacy of EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) (n = 103) compared to subcutaneous regular human insulin (n = 103) when administered TID prior tomeals. In both treatment arms, NPH human insulin was administered BID (in the morning and at bedtime) as the basal insulin. In this study, the mean age was 38.4 years (range: 19-65) and 54% of the subjects were male.
In each study, the reduction in HbA1c and the rates of hypoglycemia were comparable for the two treatment groups. EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) -treated patients had a greater reduction in fasting plasma glucose than patients in the comparator group. The percentage of patients reaching an HbA1c level of < 8% (per American Diabetes Association treatment Action Level at the time of study conduct) and an HbA1c level of < 7% was comparable between the two treatment groups. Theresults for Studies A and B are shown in Table 2.
Table 2: Results of Two 24-Week, Active-Control, Open-Label
Trials in Patients With Type 1 Diabetes (Studies A and B)
| Study A | Study B | |||
| EXUBERA (TID) + UL (QD) | SC R (BID) + NPH (BID) | EXUBERA (TID) + NPH (BID) | SC R (TID) + NPH (BID) | |
| Sample Size | 136 | 132 | 103 | 103 |
| HbA1c (%) | ||||
| Baseline mean | 7.9 | 8.0 | 7.8 | 7.8 |
| Adj. mean change from baseline | -0.2 | -0.4 | -0.3 | -0.2 |
| EXUBERA minus SCR* 95% CI for treatment difference | 0.14 (-0.03,-0.32) |
-0.11 (-0.30, 0.08) |
||
| Fasting Plasma Glucose (mg/dL) | ||||
| Baseline mean | 191 | 198 | 178 | 191 |
| Adj. mean change from baseline | -32 | -6 | -23 | 13 |
| EXUBERA minus SC R 95% CI for treatment difference | -27 (-47, -6) |
-35 (-58, -13) |
||
| 2-hr Post-Prandial Glucose Concentration (mg/dL) | ||||
| Baseline mean | 283 | 305 | 273 | 293 |
| Adj. mean change from baseline | -21 | 14 | -1 | -3 |
| EXUBERA minus SC R 95% CI for treatment difference | -35 (-61, -8) |
2 (-29, 32) |
||
| Patients with end-of-study HbA1c < 8%† | 64.0% | 68.2% | 74.8% | 66.0% |
| Patients with end-of-study HbA1c < 7% | 16.9% | 19.7% | 28.2% | 30.1% |
| Body Weight (kg) | ||||
| Baseline mean | 77.4 | 76.4 | 76.0 | 76.9 |
| Adj. mean change from baseline (kg) | 0.4 | 1.1 | 0.4 | 0.6 |
| EXUBERA minus SC R 95% CI for treatment difference | -0.72 (-1.48, 0.04) |
-0.24 (-1.07, 0.59) |
||
| End of study daily insulin dose | ||||
| Short-acting insulin | 13.4 mg ‡ | 18.3 IU | 10.9 mg ‡ | 25.7 IU |
| Long-acting insulin | 26.4 IU | 37.1 IU | 31.5 IU | 31.9 IU |
| ®® UL = Humulin U Ultralente ; SC R = subcutaneous
regular human insulin * A negative treatment difference favors EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) †American Diabetes Association treatment Action Level at the time of study conduct ‡ 1 mg inhaled insulin from Exubera (insulin human [rdna origin]) is approximately equivalent to 3 IU of subcutaneously injected regular human insulin (See DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION) |
||||
A 12-week, randomized, open-label, active-control study (Study C) was conducted in patients with type 2 diabetes not optimally controlled with diet and exercise, assessing the safety and efficacy of pre-meal TID EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) (n = 75) compared to an insulin-sensitizing agent. In this study, the mean age was 53.7 years (range: 28-80), 55% of the subjects were male and the mean body mass index was 32.3 kg/m2.
At 12 weeks, HbA1c levels in patients treated with EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) decreased 2.2% (SD = 1.0) froma baseline of 9.5% (SD = 1.1). The proportion of patients treated with EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) reaching anend-of-study HbA1c level of < 8% increased to 82.7%. The proportion of patients treated with EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) reaching an end-of-study HbA1c level of < 7 % was 44.6%. Fasting plasma glucose levels in patients treated with EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) decreased 60 mg/dl from a baseline of 208 mg/dl. Patients treated with EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) experienced a mean increase in body weight of 2 kg. The rateof hypoglycemia was higher in the Exubera (insulin human [rdna origin]) group than the group receiving an insulin-sensitizing agent.
A 12-week, randomized, open-label, active-control study (Study D) was conducted in patients with type 2 diabetes who were currently receiving treatment, but were poorly controlled, withtwo oral agents (OA). Baseline OAs included an insulin secretagogue, and either metformin or a thiazolidinedione. Patients were randomized to one of three arms: continuing OA therapy alone (n = 96), switching to pre-meal TID EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) monotherapy (n = 102) or adding pre-meal TID EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) to continued OA therapy (n = 100). In this study, the mean age was 57.4 years (range: 33-80), 66% of the subjects were male and the mean body mass index was 30 kg/m2.
EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) monotherapy and EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) in combination with OA therapy were superior to OA therapy alone in reducing HbA1c levels from baseline. The rates of hypoglycemia for the two EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) treatment groups were slightly higher than in the OA therapy alone group. Compared to OA therapy alone, the percentage of patients reaching an HbA1c level of < 8% (per American Diabetes Association treatment Action Level at time of study conduct) and an HbA 1c level of < 7% was greater for patients treated with EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) monotherapy and EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) in combination with OA therapy. Patients in both EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) treatment groups had greater reductions in fasting plasma glucose than patients treated with OA therapy alone. The results for Study D are shown in Table 3.
Table 3: Results of a 12-Week, Active-Control, Open-Label
Trial in Patients With Type 2 Diabetes Not Optimally Controlled With Dual Oral
Agent Therapy (Study D)
| StudyD | EXUBERA monotherapy | OAs * | EXUBERA + OAs |
| Sample Size | 102 | 96 | 100 |
| HbA1c (%) | |||
| Baseline | 9.3 | 9.3 | 9.2 |
| Adj. mean change from baseline | -1.4 | -0.2 | -1.9 |
| EXUBERA group minus OAs † 95% CI for treatment difference |
-1.18†,‡,§ (-1.41, .95) |
-1.67†,¶,§ (-1.90,-1.44) |
|
| Fasting Plasma Glucose (mg/dL) | |||
| Baseline mean | 203 | 203 | 195 |
| Adj. mean change from baseline | -23 | 1 | -53 |
| EXUBERA group minus OAs 95% CI for treatment difference | -24‡ (-36,-11) |
-53¶ (-66,-41) |
|
| Patients with end-of-study HbA1c < 8% # | 55.9% | 18.8% | 86.0% |
| Patients with end-of-study HbA1c < 7% | 16.7% | 1.0% | 32.0% |
| Body Weight | |||
| Baseline mean (kg) | 89.5 | 88.0 | 88.6 |
| Adj. mean change from baseline (kg) | 2.8 | 0.0 | 2.7 |
| EXUBERA group minus OAs 95% CI for treatment difference | 2.80‡ (1.94, 3.65) |
2.75 (1.89,3.61) |
|
| * OAs = treatment with two oral agents (an insulin secretagogue
in addition to metformin or a thiazolidinedione) &Dagger A negative treatment difference favors EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) &Dagger Comparison of EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) monotherapy to combination oral agent therapy alone § p < 0.0001 ¶ Comparison of EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) plus oral agents to combination oral agent therapy alone # American Diabetes Association treatment Action Level at the time of study conduct |
|||
A 24-week, randomized, open-label, active-control study (Study E) was conducted in patients with type 2 diabetes, currently receiving sulfonylurea therapy. This study was designed toassess the safety and efficacy of the addition of pre-meal EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) to continued sulfonylurea therapy (n = 214) compared to the addition of pre-meal metformin to continued sulfonylurea therapy (n = 196). Subjects were stratified according to their HbA1c at Week -1. Two strata were defined: a low HbA1c stratum (HbA1c ≥ 8% to ≤ 9.5%) and a high HbA1c stratum (HbA1c > 9.5 to ≤ 12%).
EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) in combination with sulfonylurea was superior to metformin and sulfonylurea in reducing HbA1c values from baseline in the high stratum group. EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) in combination with sulfonylurea was comparable to metformin in combination with sulfonylurea in reducing HbA1c values from baseline in the low stratum group. The rate of hypoglycemia was higher after the addition of EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) to sulfonylurea than after the addition of metformin to sulfonylurea. The percentage of patients reaching target HbA 1c values of 8% and 7% was comparable between treatment groups in both strata, as was reduction in fasting plasma glucose (see Table 4).
Another 24-week, randomized, open-label, active-control study (Study F) was conducted in patients with type 2 diabetes, currently receiving metformin therapy. This study was designed to assess the safety and efficacy of the addition of pre-meal EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) to continued metformin therapy (n = 234) compared to the addition of pre-meal glibenclamide to continued metformin therapy (n = 222). Subjects in this study were also stratified to one of two strata as defined inStudy E.
EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) in combination with metformin was superior to glibenclamide and metformin in reducing HbA1c values from baseline and achieving target HbA1c values in the high stratum group. EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) in combination with metformin was comparable to glibenclamide in combination with metformin in reducing HbA1c values from baseline and achieving target HbA1c values in the low stratum group. The rate of hypoglycemia was slightly higher after the addition of EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) to metformin than after the addition of glibenclamide to metformin. Reduction in fasting plasma glucose was comparable between treatment groups (see Table 4).
Table 4: Results of Two 24-Week, Active-Control, Open-Label
Trials in Patients With Type 2 Diabetes Previously On Oral Agent Therapy (Studies
E and F)
| Study E | Study F | |||||||
| Exubera+ SU* | Met*+ SU* | Exubera+ SU* | Met*+ SU* | Exubera + Met* | Gli*+ Met* | Exubera + Met* | Gli*+ Met* | |
| High stratum† | Low stratum† | High stratum† | Low stratum† | |||||
| Sample Size | 113 | 103 | 101 | 93 | 109 | 103 | 125 | 119 |
| HbA1c (%) | ||||||||
| Baseline mean | 10.5 | 10.6 | 8.8 | 8.8 | 10.4 | 10.6 | 8.6 | 8.7 |
| Adj. mean change from baseline | -2.2 | -1.8 | -1.9 | -1.9 | -2.2 | -1.9 | -1.8 | -1.9 |
| EXUBERA minus OA ‡ 95% CI for treatment difference | -0.38 ‡,§ (-0.63, -0.14) |
-0.07 (-0.33, 0.19) |
-0.37‡,¶ (-0.62, -0.12)-1.9 |
0.04 (-0.19, 0.27) |
||||
| Fasting Plasma Glucose (mg/dL) | ||||||||
| Baseline mean | 241 | 237 | 197 | 198 | 223 | 243 | 187 | 196 |
| Mean change from baseline | -46 | -47 | -48 | -52 | -42 | -40 | -46 | -49 |
| EXUBERA minus OA 95% CI for treatment difference | 1 (-11, 12) |
4 (-8, 16) |
-2 (-14, 10) |
4 (-7, 15) |
||||
| Subjects with end-of-study HbA1c < 8%# | 48.7% | 44.7% | 81.2% | 73.1% | 72.5% | 56.3% | 80.8% | 86.6% |
| Subjects with end-of-study HbA1c < 7% | 20.4% | 14.6% | 30.7% | 32.3% | 33.9% | 17.5% | 40.0% | 42.9% |
| Body Weight | ||||||||
| Baseline mean (kg) | 80.8 | 79.5 | 79.9 | 81.9 | 88.3 | 87.8 | 90.3 | 88.2 |
| Adj. mean change from baseline (kg) | 3.6 | -0.0 | 2.4 | -0.3 | 2.8 | 2.5 | 2.0 | 1.6 |
| EXUBERA minus OA 95% CI for treatment difference | 3.60 (2.81, 4.39) |
2.67 (1.84, 3.51) |
0.26 (-0.70, 1.21) |
0.38 (-0.52, 1.27) |
||||
| * SU = sulfonylurea, Met = metformin, Gli
= glibenclamide †Low stratum = entry HbA1c ≥ 8.0% to ≤ 9.5%; high stratum = entry HbA1c > 9.5% to ≥ 12% ‡ A negative treatment difference favors EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) § p = 0.002 ¶ p = 0.004 # American Diabetes Association treatment Action Level at the time of study conduct |
||||||||
A 24-week, randomized, open-label, active-control study (Study G) was conducted in insulin-treated patients with type 2 diabetes to assess the safety and efficacy of EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) administered pre-meal TID with a single nighttime injection of Humulin ® U Ultralente ® (n =146) compared to subcutaneous regular human insulin administered BID (pre-breakfast and pre-dinner) with BID injection of NPH human insulin (n = 149). In this study, the mean age was 57.5 years (range: 23-80), 66% of the subjects were male and the mean body mass index was 30.3 kg/m2.
The reductions from baseline in HbA1c, percent of patients reaching an HbA1c level of < 8% (per American Diabetes Association treatment Action Level at time of study conduct) and an HbA1c level of < 7%, as well as the rates of hypoglycemia, were similar between treatment groups. EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) -treated patients had a greater reduction in fasting plasma glucose than patients in the comparator group. The results for Study G are shown in Table 5.
Table 5: Results of a 24-Week, Active-Control, Open-Label
Trial in Patients With Type 2 Diabetes Previously Treated With Subcutaneous
Insulin (Study G)
| Study G | (QD) EXUBERA (TID) + UL | (BID) SC R (BID) + NPH | ||
| Sample Size | 146 | 149 | ||
| HbA1c (%) | ||||
| Baseline mean | 8.1 | 8.2 | ||
| Adj. mean change from baseline | 0.7 | -0.6 | ||
| EXUBERA minus SCR* 95% CI for treatment difference | -0.07 (-0.31, 0.17) |
|||
| Fasting Plasma Glucose (mg/dL) | ||||
| Baseline mean | 152 | 159 | ||
| Adj. mean change from baseline | -22 | -6 | ||
| EXUBERA minus SC R 95% CI for treatment difference | -16.36 (-27.09, -5.36) |
|||
| Patients with end-of-study HbA1c < 8%† | 76.0% | 69.1% | ||
| Patients with end-of-study HbA1c < 7% | 45.2% | 32.2% | ||
| Body Weight | ||||
| Baseline mean (kg) | 90.6 | 89.0 | ||
| Adj. mean change from baseline (kg) | 0.1 | 1.3 | ||
| EXUBERA minus SC R 95% CI for treatment difference | -1.28 (-1.96, -0.60) |
|||
| End of study daily insulin dose | ||||
| Short-acting insulin | 16.6 mg‡ | 25.5 IU | ||
| Long-acting insulin | 37.9 IU | 52.3 IU | ||
| UL = Humulin® U Ultralente®; SC R = subcutaneous
regular human insulin * A negative treatment difference favors EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) † American Diabetes Association treatment Action Level at the time of study conduct ‡ 1 mg inhaled insulin from Exubera (insulin human [rdna origin]) is approximately equivalent to 3 IU of subcutaneously injected regular human insulin. See DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION |
||||
Medication Guide
EXUBERA®
(eg-ZU-ber-uh)
(insulin human [rDNA origin]) Inhalation Powder
Carefully read the Instructions for Use at the end of this Medication Guide, so you will be sureto get the right amount of your insulin.
Read this Medication Guide that comes with EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) before you start using it, and eachtime you get a refill. There may be new information. This Medication Guide does not take theplace of talking with your healthcare provider about your medical condition or treatment.
What is the most important information I should know about EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) ?
EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) is a prescription medicine that contains an insulin powder that you breathe in (inhale) through your mouth using the EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) ® Inhaler. It is used to treat adults with diabetes. It helps to control high blood sugar.
What is EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) ?
What is Diabetes?
Who should NOT use EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) ?
Do not use EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) if you:
Children and teenagers should not use EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) , because it has not been tested enough in children and teenagers under 18 years of age.
What should I tell my healthcare provider before starting EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) ?
Tell your healthcare provider about all your health and medical conditions, including if you:
How should I take EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) ?
See the end of this Medication Guide for the Instructions for Use for using EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) blisters with the EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) ® Inhaler. Make sure your healthcare provider teaches you the right way to use EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) blisters with the EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) ® Inhaler and make sure you understand everything.
What can affect how much insulin I need?
Talk to your healthcare provider if you have any questions about how much insulin you need. Many things can affect how much insulin you need, including:
What are some of the possible side effects of EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) ?
1. Low blood sugar (HYPOglycemia):
As with all forms of insulin, a possible side effect of EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) is low blood sugar. Low bloodsugar is often called "hypoglycemia" or an "insulin reaction". It may happen when you do not have enough sugar in your blood. Common causes of low blood sugar are: 1) illness, 2) emotional or physical stress, 3) too much insulin, 4) too little food or missed meals, and 5) too much exercise or activity.
Early warning signs of low blood sugar may differ from person to person. For some people, signs may be easy to notice. For others, signs may be harder to notice, if noticed at all. That is why it is important to check your blood sugar as your healthcare provider has advised you.
Low blood sugar can happen with:
Low blood sugar can be mild to severe. It can start quickly.
The following patients may have few or no warning symptoms of hypoglycemia:
Symptoms of low blood sugar may include:
Low blood sugar is a problem:
What to do about low blood sugar:
2. High Blood Sugar (HYPERglycemia):
High blood sugar may occur when you have diabetes, even while you are on insulin treatment. High blood sugar is often called "hyperglycemia". It may occur when you have too much sugar in your blood. Usually, it means there is not enough insulin to break down the food you eat into energy your body can use.
High blood sugar can happen with:
High blood sugar can be a serious problem.
What are the symptoms of high blood sugar?
Often, high blood sugar has no symptoms at all. When high blood sugar does have symptoms, they can include:
Test your blood sugar levels to prevent problems.
3. Effect on Lung Function:
EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) may lower your lung function. See "What is the most important information I should know about EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) ?"
4. Serious allergic reactions:
Sometimes severe, life-threatening allergic reactions can happen with insulin. If you think you are having a severe allergic reaction, get medical help right away. Signs of insulin allergy include:
5. EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) may cause a cough, dry mouth, or chest discomfort.
Tell your healthcare provider if you have any side effects that bother you.
These are not all the side effects that can happen with EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) . Ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist for more information.
6. In studies of EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) in people with diabetes, lung cancer occurred in a few more people who were taking EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) than in people who were taking other diabetes medicines. All the people in these studies who developed lung cancer used to smoke cigarettes. There were too few cases to know if the lung cancer was related to EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) .
How should I store EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) ?
Keep EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) and all medicines out of the reach of children.
General Information about EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin])
For more information about EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) :
What are the ingredients of EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) ?
Active ingredient: human insulin
Inactive ingredients: sodium citrate (dihydrate), mannitol, glycine, and sodium hydroxide
Instructions for Use
Please read these instructions carefully before starting to use your EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) ® Inhaler. Keepthis Medication Guide, as you may need to read it again. Make sure you understand everything. Talk to your healthcare provider if you do not understand the instructions. Always be sure you have the correct EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) blisters available before using your EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) ® Inhaler. EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) blisters must only be used with the EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) ® Inhaler.
Know the Parts of your EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) Inhaler
 |
| HOW TO TAKE YOUR DOSE | |
| Step 1: Set up your EXUBERA Inhaler® | |
| Hold your EXUBERA® Inhaler in your hand. Be sure that the words "EXUBERA® Inhaler" at the top face you. |  |
| Hold the black ring at the bottom of the base and use it to pull the base out of the chamber. |  |
| You will hear a click when the EXUBERA® Inhaler is fully extended and locked into place. The bottom of the chamber MUST be above the gray button. |  |
| Step 2: Load your EXUBERA blister | |
| Hold the EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) blister by the tab with printed side up and with the notch pointed towards the EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) ® Inhaler and insert one blister into the slot. Do not open the EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) blister. |  |
| Slide one EXUBERA blister straight into the slot as far as it will go. |  |
| Step 3: Getting ready to take your dose | |
| Make sure that the mouthpiece is closed. If the mouthpiece is open, turn it around so that it is closed. |  |
| Pull out the blue handle from the bottom as far as it will go. |  |
| Squeeze the handle until it snaps shut. This will put pressure in the system. |  |
| Stand or sit up straight. |  |
| Step 4: Inhale your insulin dose | |
| Perform the following steps in order. Hold the EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) ® Inhaler upright with the blue button facing towards you. Push the blue button until it clicks and watch for the insulin cloud to fill the chamber. If a cloud does not appear right away, press the gray button, pull out the used EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) blister, go back to Step 2 and repeat. If the blister is punctured or appears damaged, use a new blister. Breathe out normally. |
 |
| After the cloud appears, right away turn the mouthpiece around. The mouthpiece should now be facing towards you. |  |
| Promptly place the mouthpiece fully in the mouth, forming a seal around
the mouthpiece with your lips, so that the insulin will not leak out. Do not block the opening of the mouthpiece with your tongue or teeth. Do not blow into the mouthpiece. In one breath, slowly and deeply breathe the insulin cloud in through your mouth. |
 |
| Take the mouthpiece out of your mouth. Close your mouth and hold your breath for 5 seconds. Breathe out normally. |
 |
| Step 5: After your dose | |
| Turn the mouthpiece back to its closed position. |  |
| Press the gray button and pull out the used EXUBERA blister. If you need another blister as part of your dose, repeat steps 2, 3 and 4. The contents of only one blister should be inhaled at a time. |
 |
| Step 6. After your dosing is completed | |
| Squeeze the two chamber release buttons on the side of the base at the
same time. Push the base back into the chamber to store the EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) ®
Inhaler. Do not store in the refrigerator or freezer. After a blister has been used, throw it away. Do not try to re-use a blister. |
 |
| HOW TO TAKE CARE OF YOUR EXUBERA® INHALER It is important to follow these steps so that your EXUBERA® Inhaler stays clean and works properly. |
|
| How to Take your EXUBERA Inhaler apart You need to know how to take your EXUBERA® Inhaler apart for you when you need to clean your EXUBERA® Inhaler (once a week), and for when you need to change the EXUBERA® Release Unit (every two weeks). Spare EXUBERA® Release Units should be kept out of children's reach. |
|
| Hold the EXUBERA® Inhaler in your hand. Be sure that the words "EXUBERA® Inhaler" at the top face you. |  |
| Hold the black ring at the bottom of the base and use it to pull the base out of the chamber. |  |
| You will hear a click when the EXUBERA® Inhaler is fully extended and locked into place. The bottom of the chamber MUST be above the gray button. |  |
| With one hand, squeeze the two chamber release buttons on the side of the base at the same time while pulling the base all the way out of the chamber with the other hand. |  |
| Cleaning | |
| Chamber and mouthpiece - once a week for best functioning. Keeping
the chamber and mouthpiece clean is very important to prevent medicine build-up.
It is suggested that you choose one day of the week (such as Monday) and
clean the chamber and mouthpiece after your last dose for that day every
week. How? Take your EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) ® Inhaler apart. (See above) |
 |
| Turn the mouthpiece to the open position. |  |
| Dampen a clean soft cloth and use mild liquid soap to wipe the outside and inside of the chamber and mouthpiece. Do NOT put the chamber in the dishwasher. | |
| Thoroughly rinse the soap out of the chamber and mouthpiece with warm water. | |
| Allow to completely air dry. This will probably take about 4 hours. Make sure that the chamber and mouthpiece are completely dry and that no water droplets remain. Close the mouthpiece. Reattach the chamber to the base. | |
| For instructions on how to attach the chamber to the base, refer to the section "Put your EXUBERA® Inhaler together". | |
| If the washed chamber is not completely dry prior to taking your next dose, use your spare chamber. | |
| Base - clean once a week |  |
| How? Do not put the base in water. Do not get the inside of the EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) ® Release Unit wet. Do not wipe the Release Unit. Do not use soap or any other cleanser. Dampen a clean soft cloth with water; do not use a paper towel. Hold the base upside down with the Release Unit facing the ground. While cleaning the top of the base be careful not to get any water into the Release Unit. Do not take the Release Unit out at this time. Keep the blue handle closed. Make sure that no water droplets remain. Wipe only the TOP and OUTSIDE surfaces of the base. Do not wipe the slot where the blister is inserted. |
 |
| Put your EXUBERA® Inhaler together | |
| Line the top of the base with the open end of the chamber. The blue dot
on the bottom of the chamber must be on the same side as the blue button
on the base. Squeeze the two chamber release buttons on the side of the base at the same time. Push the base back into the chamber to store. Store your EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) ® Inhaler in a dry place at room temperature. |
 |
| Replacing your EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) ® Release Unit Change the Release
Unit Every 2 weeks. You should mark your calendar to remind you when you need to replace the Release Unit. You may also mark the EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) ® Release Unit carton in the spaces provided. Be careful when handling the Release Unit, because it has sharp edges. You should not clean the Release Unit. |
 |
| How? Take out the used EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) ® Release Unit While the chamber is removed from the base (see "How to take your EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) ® Inhaler apart"), hold the base in your hand with the gray button facing you. Turnthe used Release Unit about a one-quarter turn counter-clockwise towards the unlock symbol. |
 |
| Pull the used Release Unit up and out of the base and discard. |  |
| Put in a New EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) ® Release Unit Remove the Release Unit from its packaging. Hold the new Release Unit so the top is facing you. You will see a blue line on it. While holding the Release Unit with one hand, turn the top counter-clockwise with the other hand as far as it will go. |
 |
| Line up the blue line on the top of the Release Unit with the unlock symbol
on the top of the base. Insert the Release Unit gently into the base. Do not force - it should easily drop into place. (If the new Release Unit does not drop into place or fits tightly, remove and try again). If after several attempts you are not able to insert the Release Unit, try another Release Unit. If you are still having problems, please call 1-800-EXUBERA (insulin human [rdna origin]) . |
 |
| Turn the top of the Release Unit clockwise until the blue line points to the lock symbol on the top of the base. The new Release Unit is now locked in place. |  |
