Key takeaways
Acarbose (Precose) and Afrezza (insulin human inhaled) are both used to manage diabetes, but they work in different ways and have distinct characteristics. Acarbose is an alpha-glucosidase inhibitor taken orally with meals to slow down carbohydrate digestion, which helps control blood sugar levels in people with Type 2 diabetes. It is less likely to cause hypoglycemia when used alone but can cause side effects like gas and diarrhea. On the other hand, Afrezza is a fast-acting insulin inhaled through the mouth before meals, suitable for both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes. It starts working within minutes but can cause low blood sugar, cough, and throat irritation. Afrezza is a good option for those who prefer not to use injections, but it is not recommended for people with breathing problems like asthma or COPD. Unlike acarbose, Afrezza is available in a branded form and requires careful handling and storage.
