Awiqli (Insulin Icodec-abae)First Once Weekly Insulin

 

Awiqli (Insulin Icodec-abae)

Living with diabetes just got easier. In March 2026, the FDA approved Awiqli (insulin icodec-abae)  the world’s first once-weekly basal insulin.

Developed by Novo Nordisk, this long-acting insulin significantly reduces injection frequency for adults with type 2 diabetes

Awiqli (Insulin Icodec-abae)First Once  Weekly Insulin for Type 2 Diabetes 2026

Type 1 vs Type 2 Diabetes:

Understanding Awiqli’s Role

Type 2 Diabetes is the most common form, where the body becomes resistant to insulin or doesn’t produce enough.

Awiqli is FDA-approved as an adjunct to diet and exercise to improve glycemic control in adults with type 2 diabetes.

 It works well for both insulin-naïve patients and those switching from daily basal insulin.

Type 1 Diabetes is an autoimmune condition where the pancreas produces little to no insulin Patients require lifelong insulin therapy. Currently,

Awiqli is not approved by the FDA for Type 1 diabetes due to higher hypoglycemia risks observed in trials.

However, it is approved for both Type 1 and Type 2 in several other countries like Canada, Europe, and Switzerland.

Patients with Type 1 should continue using approved daily or mealtime insulins under medical supervision.

The First Once Weekly Basal Insulin Revolutionizing Type 2 Diabetes

Management Living with type 2 diabetes just got easier. In March 2026, the FDA approved Awiqli (insulin icodec-abae) the world’s first and only once-weekly basal insulin.

Developed by Novo Nordisk, this breakthrough long-acting insulin offers a convenient alternative to daily basal insulin injections, potentially improving adherence and quality of life for millions of adults with type 2 diabetes.

What is Awiqli (Insulin Icodec-abae)?

Awiqli is an ultra-long-acting insulin analog (700 units/mL) designed for subcutaneous injection once per week.

It provides steady blood sugar control over an entire week, thanks to its unique molecular modifications that allow slow release and a half-life of approximately 196 hours.

Brand Name: Awiqli

Generic Name: Insulin icodec-abae

Manufacturer: Novo Nordisk

Approval: FDA-approved on March 26, 2026, for adults with type 2 diabetes as an adjunct to diet and exercise to improve glycemic control.

Key Benefits of Once-Weekly Awiqli Fewer Injections

Reduces basal insulin injections from 365 to just 52 per year.

Improved Convenience — Ideal for patients who struggle with daily routines.

Steady Glucose Control

Clinical trials (ONWARDS program) showed comparable or slightly better HbA1c reductions compared to daily insulins like glargine or degludec.

Flexible Dosing Day

Can be taken on the same day each week, at any time.

Who Can Use Awiqli?

Awiqli is indicated for adults with type 2 diabetes.

It is not currently approved for type 1 diabetes.

Always consult your doctor before switching from daily basal insulin.

How to Use Awiqli

Administered  once weekly via Flex Touch prefilled pen (available in 1 mL, 1.5 mL, or 3 mL sizes).

Starting dose for insulin-naïve patients: 70 units once weekly.

When switching from daily basal insulin: Multiply previous daily dose by 7 (with possible initial adjustment).

Inject in the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm.

Rotate sites to avoid lipodystrophy.

Potential Side Effects Like other insulins, common side effects include:  Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) 

Injection site reactions 

Weight gain 

Lipodystrophy (skin changes at injection site)

Serious risks include severe hypoglycemia and allergic reactions. Proper education and blood glucose monitoring are essential.

The Future of  Diabetes

 Awiqli represents a major advancement in simplifying diabetes management.

By reducing treatment burden, it may help more patients achieve better long-term control and adherence.

Expert Insight by Naeem Mustafa – Pharmacist, PharmaServePK

As a pharmacist with years of experience supporting diabetes patients in Pakistan and globally, I see Awiqli as a game changer for those tired of daily injections.

Proper counseling on dosing, storage, and hypoglycemia recognition remains crucial for safe use.

Always consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist before starting any new insulin therapy.

Article written by Naeem Mustafa, Pharmacist at PharmaServePK.