Key takeaways
Glipizide (Glucotrol XL) and Afrezza (insulin human) are both medications used to manage diabetes. However, they belong to different medication classes and have distinct mechanisms of action. Glipizide is a sulfonylurea that works by stimulating the pancreas to release more insulin, while Afrezza is an ultra rapid-acting inhaled insulin that helps control blood sugar levels after meals. Glipizide is taken orally, either once or twice daily, and is available as a lower-cost generic. In contrast, Afrezza is inhaled at the start of meals and does not have a generic version. Common side effects of glipizide include dizziness, diarrhea, and low blood sugar (hypoglycemia). Afrezza can also cause low blood sugar, and cough is also a common side effect. It is not recommended for people with breathing problems like asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Additionally, Afrezza requires careful storage and handling, as it must be kept refrigerated until use. While both medications help manage blood sugar, their forms, dosing, and side effects differ significantly.
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