In a groundbreaking development for diabetes care, Novo Nordisk has announced the launch of Awiqli in Canada, making it the first country globally to introduce this treatment. Awiqli is based on the substance insulin icodec, a long-acting insulin and will be available as a once-weekly injection. Starting June 30th, Awiqli will be available nationwide, offering a new, more convenient option for adults managing diabetes mellitus.
Health Canada approved Awiqli on March 12, 2024, for improving glycemic control in adults with diabetes. “The arrival of Awiqli in Canada marks a pivotal moment in over 100 years of diabetes care. By transitioning from daily basal insulin injections to just one per week, Awiqli’s convenience ultimately provides the choice for potentially more patients living with diabetes in need of basal insulin to better manage their condition,” stated Dr. Alexander Abitbol, MDCM, FRCPC, Endocrinologist & Assistant Medical Director, LMC Healthcare, Lead Primary Investigator – Early Phase, Centricity Research.
Rising Diabetes Rates and the Need for Innovative Solutions
Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is a progressive disease that often requires intensified treatment over time. In Canada, over 4.1 million people are diagnosed with diabetes, facing the daily burden of insulin injections. Despite advancements in diabetes treatments, a significant gap in care remains, with many adults unable to achieve their glycemic targets and half of the T2D population undiagnosed.
Survey Insights: The Burden of Daily Injections
A recent survey of Canadians living with T2D revealed the challenges associated with daily insulin injections:
- 58% find daily insulin management burdensome.
- 55% struggle with the daily injection routine.
- 77% express interest in less frequent insulin administration.
- 65% wish for an easier daily insulin regimen.
- 57% of those not currently on insulin would consider it if injections were less frequent.
Awiqli: A Milestone in Diabetes Management
Awiqli has received regulatory approvals not only in Canada but also in Switzerland and by the European Commission for the treatment of both type 1 and type 2 diabetes. The approval is based on data from the ONWARDS phase 3a clinical trial program, which involved over 4,000 adults with diabetes and successfully met its primary endpoints.
Hypoglycemia is the most common adverse reaction associated with insulin preparations, including Awiqli, as per Novo Nordisk. Other side effects reported include skin issues at the injection site and peripheral edema.
Price Details
While the final cost of Awiqli in Canada is yet to be officially disclosed, the British Columbia Ministry of Health anticipates annual costs to be between $1,085 and $1,357.
Additional Information
Additional information on Awiqli is available in a 64 page consumer information brochure on Novo Nordisk’s website.