First Weekly Insulin Injection Available in Israel for Diabetics
Translated & summarized from Alarab by baba
Israel has launched Awiqli, the first once-weekly basal insulin injection for diabetes, significantly reducing annual shots from 365 to 52. Developed by Novo Nordisk, clinical trials show it offers effective blood sugar control comparable to daily injections. The treatment, which costs between 280-527 shekels privately, aims to ease the burden of diabetes management for patients.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Awiqli, the first once-weekly basal insulin, is now available in Israel for diabetes patients.
- The new treatment reduces annual insulin injections from 365 to just 52.
- Clinical studies show Awiqli provides blood sugar control comparable to daily insulin.
- The weekly injection aims to reduce the burden and improve adherence to diabetes treatment.
- A pack of Awiqli costs between 280 and 527 shekels and can last up to 12 weeks.
Israel has introduced Awiqli (insulin icodec), the first once-weekly basal insulin injection for diabetes management. Developed by Novo Nordisk, this innovation significantly reduces the number of annual injections from 365 to 52, offering a less burdensome treatment option for patients. Clinical studies involving thousands of individuals have demonstrated that Awiqli provides effective blood sugar control, comparable to daily insulin regimens.
The new treatment, already approved in Europe and the United States, is now available in Israel. It aims to alleviate the challenges associated with daily injections, which can be a barrier to initiating or adhering to insulin therapy, particularly for individuals with type 2 diabetes. By reducing the injection frequency to once a week, Awiqli simplifies the daily routine and eases the management of the disease.
Awiqli's extended action is attributed to its active substance, insulin icodec, which binds to albumin in the bloodstream and is gradually released over a prolonged period. This mechanism ensures sustained insulin effect for blood sugar regulation without the need for daily administration. The treatment is administered via a dedicated injection pen, with dosages individualized based on the patient's blood sugar levels and physician's guidance.
The efficacy and safety of insulin icodec were evaluated in the ONWARDS clinical program, comprising six Phase 3 studies with approximately 4,000 participants. These studies compared weekly Awiqli with daily basal insulin, showing similar or even superior reductions in HbA1c levels for the weekly treatment. One patient, Ilan, 67, who participated in a clinical trial at Meir Hospital in Kfar Saba, described the treatment as life-changing, noting improved blood sugar control and significant psychological relief.
The cost of Awiqli when purchased privately ranges from 280 to 527 shekels per pack, with each pack lasting up to 12 weeks depending on the dosage. This new option is expected to offer considerable relief to patients managing their diabetes.