Novo Nordisk India on 9 July launched Awiqli (insulin icodec), making India one of the first countries to offer the world’s first once-weekly basal insulin for adults with Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes.
The therapy reduces the frequency of insulin injections from 365 annual injections (one daily) to 52 injections (one weekly), potentially improving treatment adherence and patient convenience.
Awiqli (insulin icodec) is a long-acting basal insulin designed to provide stable blood glucose control throughout the week with a single injection.
Findings from the ONWARDS-1 global clinical programme showed that Awiqli achieved greater reductions in HbA1c levels and improved Time in Range (TIR) compared with once-daily insulin glargine U100.
The study also found that a higher proportion of people with Type 2 diabetes achieved an HbA1c level below 7% without experiencing hypoglycaemia, indicating better overall glycaemic control.
Improved Time in Range (TIR) suggests that patients spent more time with blood glucose levels within the recommended target range, reducing fluctuations during the day.
The most common adverse effect of Awiqli is hypoglycaemia (low blood glucose levels), which may affect around one in ten patients.
According to some experts, people with Type 1 diabetes may experience more frequent hypoglycaemic episodes with insulin icodec compared to conventional once-daily basal insulin, requiring careful monitoring.
The launch marks a significant advancement in diabetes management by offering a less burdensome insulin regimen, though appropriate patient selection and clinical supervision remain important.
Source: Mint & IE
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