Novo Nordisk announced new phase 3 data from the investigational therapy IDegLira at the World Diabetes Congress of the International Diabetes Federation. IDegLira is a combination of Tresiba (insulin degludec), a once-daily basal insulin analogue with an ultra-long duration of action, and Victoza (liraglutide), the once-daily human GLP-1 analogue for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. IDegLira is the first-ever once-daily, single administration combination of a long-acting basal insulin and glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) analogue being developed by Novo Nordisk.
The DUAL™ II trial shows that in comparison with Tresiba (insulin degludec), IDegLira achieved superior control of blood sugar levels (HbA1c). Improved fasting and postprandial plasma glucose levels were seen with IDegLira throughout the day and across meals, while providing significant weight loss for adults with type 2 diabetes uncontrolled on basal insulin.
The rate of hypoglycemia was low in both treatment groups, even with a significant difference in HbA1c reduction with IDegLira. This trial was designed to evaluate the contribution of the Victoza component of IDegLira on glycaemic control.
Weight gain is a concern when using insulin-based therapies. In the DUAL II trial, IDegLira demonstrated spectacular HbA1c reductions with a weight loss of 2.7 kg for patients uncontrolled on basal insulin. This was achieved, with a low rate of hypoglycemia and few gastrointestinal adverse effects.
