Once Weekly Insulin A New Option For Canadians With Diabetes

What type of insulin is once-weekly?

The once-weekly insulin formulation, known as insulin icodec and sold under the brand name Awiqli®, was approved in Canada in March 2024 for adults with diabetes. This ultra-long-acting basal insulin is designed to regulate blood sugar over 7 days. Unlike daily injections, insulin icodec provides consistent blood sugar control throughout the week due to its slow absorption, eliminating the need for daily dosing.

4 benefits of once-weekly insulin

1. Convenience: One of the most significant advantages of insulin icodec is its convenience. Insulin can now be injected just once a week, which simplifies the diabetes management routine. This may help with consistency of treatment plans, ultimately improving health outcomes.

2. Reduced injection site issues: Fewer injections reduce the risk of common side effects associated with insulin therapy, such as irritation, bruising or scar tissue at the injection site (this is known as lipohypertrophy). This can result in decreased blood sugar variability, better skin health and a more comfortable injection experience over time.

3. Improved quality of life: For many people, frequent injections cause psychological stress or needle anxiety. The once-weekly regimen alleviates some of these emotional burdens, enhancing quality of life and making it easier to adhere to treatment plans.

4. Comparable or superior blood sugar control: Insulin icodec provides a more stable and prolonged insulin effect, helping to maintain smoother blood sugar levels over time. This can reduce fluctuations in blood sugar and contribute to better long-term diabetes management.