Ultra-long-acting insulin degludec: phase 2 data

Novo Nordisk has presented phase 2 proof-of-concept data for its investigational insulin degludec, an ultra-long-acting basal insulin, which demonstrated the potential to help achieve glycaemic control when used once-daily or three-times-weekly.

These data were presented at the 70th Scientific Sessions of the ADA.

Insulin degludec is a novel insulin molecule with a new mode of action that provides a smooth and stable profile. It has a distinct ultra-long clinical profile derived from its specially engineered molecular structure that is designed to self-assemble into large soluble formations at the site of injection. The formations, known as multi-hexamer formations, are believed to slow the absorption rate of the insulin into the blood which leads to a longer profile of action and the possibility of a three-times-weekly dosing regimen in patients with type 2 diabetes

In these phase 2 studies insulin degludec formulations demonstrated glycaemic control similar to insulin glargine. The rate of hypoglycaemia appeared lower for insulin degludec once-daily than insulin degludec three-times-weekly and insulin glargine. The proportion of patients with adverse events was similar across treatment arms and the majority of events were mild or moderate in severity.