Novo Nordisk Introduced First and Only Awiqli® for Type 2 Diabetes
Novo Nordisk has introduced Awiqli® (insulin icodec-abae), the first and only once-weekly basal insulin for adults with type 2 diabetes.
Awiqli® is indicated as an adjunct to diet and exercise to improve blood glucose control in adults with type 2 diabetes. Awiqli® offers a once-weekly alternative to daily basal insulin injections, providing a new treatment option for patients requiring long-acting insulin therapy.
The approval is based on data from the Phase 3a ONWARDS clinical programme, which included approximately 2,680 adults with uncontrolled type 2 diabetes. Across four randomised studies, Awiqli® demonstrated efficacy in reducing HbA1c levels compared with daily basal insulin therapies. The safety profile of Awiqli® was generally consistent with that of the basal insulin class.
Type 2 diabetes is a chronic metabolic disorder characterised by insulin resistance and progressive loss of insulin production, resulting in elevated blood glucose levels. The condition is associated with serious complications affecting the heart, kidneys, eyes and nerves if not adequately controlled. While basal insulin is an established treatment for managing blood glucose levels, daily injections may present challenges for some patients, highlighting the need for more flexible treatment options.
The ONWARDS programme evaluated Awiqli® in combination with mealtime insulin, oral anti-diabetic medicines and GLP-1 receptor agonists. Common adverse events reported during the studies included hypoglycaemia, injection-site reactions, skin changes at injection sites, rash, itching, swelling and weight gain.
Awiqli® is designed as a long-acting basal insulin administered once weekly on the same day each week using the Awiqli® FlexTouch device. Awiqli® is intended to provide sustained blood glucose control while reducing the frequency of injections compared with conventional daily basal insulin treatments.
