Novo Nordisk Launches Awiqli, World’s First Once-Weekly Insulin in India

Novo Nordisk has introduced Awiqli (insulin icodec) in India, marking a global breakthrough that reduces basal insulin injection frequency from 365 days a year to just 52.

MUMBAI – Danish pharmaceutical giant Novo Nordisk has officially launched Awiqli, the world’s first once-weekly basal insulin injection, in the Indian market. The breakthrough therapy, which simplifies diabetes management for millions, represents a significant shift from the traditional daily injection regimen that has defined insulin treatment for decades.

The product, based on the molecule insulin icodec, is designed to provide long-acting glycaemic control, keeping blood glucose levels within the target range for a full seven days. By reducing the burden of daily administration, Novo Nordisk aims to address the "insulin inertia" that often discourages patients from starting necessary therapy.

A Breakthrough in Diabetes Care

Awiqli is approved in India for the treatment of adults living with both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes. This represents a broader indication than its approval in many Western markets, where it is primarily focused on Type 2 diabetes.

According to medical experts, the move to once-weekly insulin addresses the psychological and physical fatigue associated with daily injections. In clinical trials, including the global ONWARDS programme, Awiqli demonstrated efficacy in lowering HbA1c levels comparable to daily basal insulins like degludec and glargine, while maintaining a safety profile consistent with existing therapies.

"We have always aspired to bring breakthrough therapies to Indian patients at the earliest opportunity," said Vikrant Shrotriya, Managing Director of Novo Nordisk India. He noted that by reframing the basal insulin routine, the company hopes to encourage better treatment adherence among the country’s large population of people living with diabetes.

Pricing and Accessibility

Novo Nordisk has positioned Awiqli competitively within the Indian market. Sources indicate that the treatment is launching at approximately ₹3.5 per unit, achieving price parity with existing daily analogue basal insulins. This strategy is intended to ensure that patients do not face a financial barrier when transitioning to the more convenient once-weekly format.

Annual treatment costs for Awiqli are projected to be 20–25% lower than certain existing analogue basal therapies, depending on individual dosage requirements. The insulin will be available via the FlexTouch device, a pre-filled pen system designed for ease of use.

Why It Matters

For patients, the primary benefit of Awiqli is the reduction of injections from 365 to 52 per year. This simplicity is expected to improve quality of life and adherence, particularly for patients who struggle with the strict, daily schedule required by conventional basal insulin. For the healthcare system, better adherence to insulin therapy is associated with lower long-term risks of diabetes-related complications, such as cardiovascular disease and neuropathy.

Key Facts at a Glance

• Product: Awiqli (insulin icodec), the world’s first once-weekly basal insulin.

• Manufacturer: Novo Nordisk.

• Mechanism: An ultra-long-acting insulin that binds to albumin in the bloodstream, allowing for once-weekly dosing.

• Approval: Authorized for adults with both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes in India.

• Administration: Delivered once weekly on the same day via the FlexTouch pre-filled pen.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does Awiqli work differently than daily insulin?

Awiqli contains insulin icodec, which is engineered to bind to albumin in the bloodstream, creating a reservoir that slowly releases insulin over seven days, unlike daily insulins that require frequent administration.

Is it safe for both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes?

In India, Awiqli is approved for both types. However, medical guidelines state that for Type 1 diabetes, it must be used in conjunction with mealtime (short-acting) insulin to cover nutritional intake.

What is the most common side effect?

As with all insulin therapies, the most common side effect is hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar). Patients are advised to monitor their glucose levels regularly, especially when first switching from daily basal insulin.

Source: Novo Nordisk, The Economic Times, European Medicines Agency