Insulin icodec

Insulin icodec is a basal insulin analogue developed by Novo Nordisk for the treatment of diabetes mellitus. It is a long-acting insulin that is designed to be administered once weekly, providing a more convenient dosing schedule for patients compared to daily insulin injections.

Mechanism of Action[edit | edit source]

Insulin icodec works by mimicking the effects of natural insulin, a hormone produced by the pancreas that regulates the amount of glucose in the blood. Insulin icodec binds to the insulin receptors on cells, allowing glucose to enter and be used for energy. This helps to lower blood glucose levels and prevent the complications of high blood sugar, such as diabetic retinopathy and diabetic nephropathy.

Clinical Trials[edit | edit source]

Clinical trials have shown that insulin icodec is as effective as daily basal insulin in controlling blood glucose levels in patients with type 2 diabetes. In a phase 2 trial, insulin icodec demonstrated a similar safety profile to that of daily basal insulin, with no significant difference in the rate of hypoglycemia.

Approval and Availability[edit | edit source]

Insulin icodec was approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in the United States in 2021. It is available as a pre-filled pen for subcutaneous injection.

Side Effects[edit | edit source]

Like all insulins, insulin icodec can cause side effects. The most common side effect is hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar. Other potential side effects include weight gain, allergic reactions, and injection site reactions.