Novo Nordisk India announced the introduction of Awiqli (insulin icodec), the first ever once-weekly basal insulin designed for adults with Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes mellitus. This groundbreaking product simplifies the insulin regimen required by patients, reducing the need for daily injections from 365 to just 52 annually. The company emphasises that this advancement represents a significant transformation in the way insulin is integrated into patients’ lives rather than a mere enhancement of existing treatments.

Clinical Evidence and Potential Benefits

The ONWARDS-1 clinical trial, conducted globally, showed that Awiqli resulted in superior reductions in HbA1c levels and increased Time in Range compared to the conventional once-daily glargine U100. Participants with Type 2 diabetes who used Awiqli attained HbA1c levels below 7 per cent without experiencing hypoglycaemia. This marked improvement in glucose management allows patients to maintain better control throughout the day.

Vikrant Shrotriya, Managing Director of Novo Nordisk India, highlighted this launch as a pivotal achievement in the landscape of diabetes care. He pointed out that Novo Nordisk has devoted over a century to streamlining insulin therapy, making it more effective and accessible. Shrotriya believes that Awiqli can help minimise both the psychological and physical challenges often faced by patients starting insulin, potentially leading to improved diabetes control and overall lifestyle quality.

Dr S K Wangnoo, a Senior Consultant Endocrinologist at the Apollo Centre for Obesity, Diabetes & Endocrinology in New Delhi, reaffirmed the importance of insulin as a cornerstone in diabetes management. He noted that treatment delays and adherence issues could impact health outcomes adversely. Innovations like Awiqli that simplify the treatment process may encourage earlier insulin initiation in patients and foster more productive discussions between healthcare providers and individuals managing diabetes.

Diabetes Burden in India

India is currently facing one of the world’s most substantial diabetes challenges, with over 101 million individuals diagnosed with the condition and another 136 million at risk due to prediabetes. The National Family Health Survey-6 (2023-24) reports a concerning increase in blood sugar levels across both urban and rural areas, with 20.9 per cent of men over 15 either exhibiting high blood sugar or undergoing diabetes treatment. This is an increase from 15.6 per cent noted in the previous survey. Women’s statistics also show a rise from 13.5 per cent to 17.8 per cent in the same age group.

Despite the soaring incidence of diabetes, many patients face delays of seven to nine years in initiating insulin therapy. This procrastination can stem from various barriers, including fear of injections, concerns about pain, the complexity of treatment, and the financial burden on patients. Additionally, healthcare professionals are often concerned about the risks of hypoglycaemia, weight gain, and the complexities involved in dose titration.

As Type 2 diabetes progresses, many patients find that insulin therapy becomes essential. However, the inconveniences associated with daily injections frequently deter individuals from commencing treatment. Novo Nordisk believes that Awiqli’s once-weekly dosing, reinforced by solid clinical data and its presentation via the FlexTouch delivery device, has the potential to reshape patients’ perceptions of insulin therapy, fostering increased confidence and willingness to adhere to treatment protocols.

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