First fixed-ratio combination of insulin degludec and liraglutide for the treatment of type 2 diabetes

Abstract

When oral hypoglycemic agents do not successfully suppress hyperglycemia, the traditional approach has been to add insulin injections. With the coming of glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists carrying the benefits of weight loss and reduced risk of hypoglycemia, it has been suggested that GLP-1 agents should be used instead. There is equivalent lowering of HbA1c with either treatment. Insulin therapy is associated with hypoglycemia and weight gain while GLP-1 receptor agonists promote weight loss. Gastrointestinal (GI) intolerance is the chief obstacle to GLP-1 treatment. The combined use of basal insulin and GLP-1 receptor agonists results in improved glycemic control and mitigates weight gain. The recent approval of insulin degludec/liraglutide administered in a fixed ratio combination is unique not simply for the additive benefits of the two agents, but because it now permits adjustable dosing of liraglutide together with insulin, providing better glucose control than with either agent alone at lower dose levels. Lower dosage of insulin degludec reduces the risk of hypoglycemia. Liraglutide combats the weight gain that accompanies the introduction of insulin therapy, and a reduced dose of liraglutide induces less GI intolerance. This first combined basal insulin-GLP-1 receptor agonist combination represents a conceptual advance in the treatment of insulin-requiring type 2 diabetes.

Keywords: Glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) analogue; HbA1c; Insulin degludec; Liraglutide; Uncontrolled type 2 diabetes.