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Inhaled forms of insulin are likely to reach the marketplace
by the end of 2001. Pfizer and Hoechst Marion Roussel have
recently announced a co-operation to produce an inhaled
insulin using technology from Inhale Therapeutic Systems
that delivers a fine powder into the lungs. Phase III studies
were started this summer at more than 110 sites, for both
types of diabetes.
Another
inhaled insulin is being developed by Novo Nordisk and Aradigm.
This is currently in Phase II trials and is expected to
hit the market in 2003. It uses a different delivery method
to the Inhale product and is breath-activated. Studies to
date have shown that when inhaled just before a meal, the
Novo Nordisk system produces similar glucose control to
an insulin injection.
A third
inhaled version of insulin is in development with diabetes
specialist Eli Lilly and Dura Pharmaceuticals. This uses
Dura’s Spiros, a battery-powered delivery system . The alliance
between the two companies began in 1998, and the product
is now believed to be in Phase II trials (Lehman Brothers
estimate a 2002 launch).
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