Weekly insulin injection launches in U.S. to cut patient shots from 365 to 52 per year

Type 2 diabetes patients requiring long-term insulin therapy now have a new option to reduce the frequency of injections. Danish pharmaceutical company Novo Nordisk announced the U.S. launch of Awiqli, the world's first weekly insulin injection. This development allows some patients to transition from daily shots to a single weekly dose, significantly cutting down the annual number of injections from 365 to 52.

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Awiqli is the first weekly injectable insulin to reach the market.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved Awiqli in March, marking the first weekly-acting insulin to reach the market. However, its extended duration of action, while reducing injection burden, necessitates more cautious management of potential risks such as hypoglycemia. For patients who rely on assistance for their injections, a weekly regimen could substantially ease the caregiving load. Doctors suggest that elderly individuals needing help with medication, residents of care facilities, and those with memory issues might benefit most.

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The drug's week-long efficacy, while reducing injections, also means risks like hypoglycemia need more careful control.

Despite the convenience, weekly injections do not eliminate the need for diligent blood sugar management. Patients must continue to monitor their glucose levels as directed by their physician and adjust their weekly dosage accordingly. Experts caution that the prolonged effect of Awiqli means that if an overdose occurs, the hypoglycemic effects will not dissipate as quickly as with short-acting drugs. This could lead to severe consequences, especially for elderly patients, making the weekly insulin unsuitable for all patients requiring insulin treatment.

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For some patients who need assistance injecting insulin, once a week may significantly reduce the care burden.

The cost of Awiqli is set at $99 per single injection pen, approximately NT$3,200. For some insured patients in the U.S., the out-of-pocket cost is around $35 per month (about NT$1,130). Uninsured individuals can access discount programs, bringing the monthly cost down to $55 (around NT$1,780). However, the extent of insurance coverage, prior authorization requirements, and other conditions remain uncertain. The broad adoption of Awiqli will ultimately hinge on individual patient circumstances, their risk of hypoglycemia, and insurance reimbursement policies.

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If the dose is too high and causes hypoglycemia, the effect will not disappear as quickly as with short-acting drugs.