By Dr. Moxit Shah, DM Endocrinology | Endocrinologist in Ahmedabad
Managing diabetes often requires lifelong treatment, and for many people, the thought of taking an insulin injection every day can be overwhelming. This fear leads many patients to delay insulin therapy, resulting in poor blood sugar control and a higher risk of complications.
A major breakthrough has now arrived—Awiqli® (Insulin Icodec), the world’s first once-weekly basal insulin. Instead of taking an insulin injection every day, eligible patients can now receive just one injection every week, making diabetes management simpler and more convenient.
What is Awiqli® (Insulin Icodec)?
Awiqli® contains insulin icodec, an ultra-long-acting basal insulin designed to provide stable blood glucose control for an entire week with a single injection.
Unlike traditional long-acting insulins such as insulin glargine or insulin degludec that require daily administration, insulin icodec remains active for approximately seven days, maintaining consistent basal insulin coverage.
How Does Once-Weekly Insulin Work?
After injection, insulin icodec is released slowly into the bloodstream over the entire week. This steady release helps:
- Maintain stable fasting blood glucose
- Reduce day-to-day fluctuations
- Improve treatment adherence
- Simplify diabetes management
Patients simply choose one day of the week and administer their injection on the same day every week.
Who Can Benefit from Awiqli®?
Once-weekly insulin may be an excellent option for:
- Adults with Type 2 Diabetes requiring basal insulin
- Patients who frequently forget daily insulin injections
- Individuals hesitant to start insulin because of injection burden
- Busy professionals
- Elderly patients with caregiver support
- Patients looking for a simpler treatment schedule
Your endocrinologist will determine whether this treatment is suitable for you.
Advantages of Awiqli®
Only One Injection Per Week
Instead of 365 injections each year, patients require only 52 injections annually, significantly reducing treatment burden.
Improved Treatment Adherence
Missing daily insulin doses is common. A once-weekly schedule may help improve medication adherence and long-term glucose control.
Excellent Blood Sugar Control
Clinical studies have shown that insulin icodec provides HbA1c reduction comparable to or better than daily basal insulin in many patients with Type 2 diabetes.
Stable Blood Glucose Levels
Its prolonged action provides continuous basal insulin coverage throughout the week.
Greater Convenience
Weekly dosing is particularly helpful for individuals with demanding schedules or those who travel frequently.
Are There Any Limitations?
Like every medication, Awiqli® is not suitable for everyone.
Some important considerations include:
- Dose adjustments occur more slowly than with daily insulin.
- Missing the weekly injection can affect glucose control for several days.
- Patients require proper education before starting therapy.
- It may not be appropriate for people whose insulin requirements change rapidly due to illness or steroid treatment.
- Careful monitoring is essential during initiation and dose titration.
Is Awiqli® Safe?
Large international ONWARDS clinical trials demonstrated that once-weekly insulin icodec provides excellent glycaemic control with a safety profile broadly comparable to daily basal insulin in adults with Type 2 diabetes when used appropriately.
As with any insulin, hypoglycaemia remains possible, making regular follow-up with an endocrinologist important.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Awiqli® a cure for diabetes?
No. It is a modern insulin treatment that helps control blood sugar more conveniently.
Can I stop my diabetes medicines after starting Awiqli®?
Not necessarily. Many patients continue other diabetes medications alongside basal insulin. Treatment is individualized.
Can I travel with Awiqli®?
Yes. Once-weekly dosing can make travel easier, but the insulin should be transported and stored according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Is it suitable for Type 1 diabetes?
Its primary role is in Type 2 diabetes. The decision to use insulin icodec should always be made by an endocrinologist based on current evidence and regulatory approval.
Expert Opinion from Dr. Moxit Shah
Once-weekly basal insulin is one of the most exciting advances in diabetes care in recent years. For many patients, the biggest challenge is not insulin itself—it is remembering to take it every day.
Awiqli® has the potential to improve adherence, simplify treatment, and help patients achieve better long-term diabetes control. However, the right insulin should always be selected based on your medical history, blood sugar profile, lifestyle, and individual needs.
Never start or change insulin therapy without specialist guidance.
Consult Dr. Moxit Shah – Endocrinologist in Ahmedabad
If your blood sugar remains uncontrolled despite tablets, or if you have been advised to start insulin but are worried about daily injections, consult Dr. Moxit Shah, DM Endocrinology, for a personalized evaluation.
Expert care is available for:
- Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes
- Thyroid Disorders
- Obesity and Weight Management
- PCOS and Hormonal Disorders
- Osteoporosis and Calcium Disorders
- Pituitary and Adrenal Diseases
Book your appointment today.
Dr. Moxit Shah, DM Endocrinology
Endocrinologist | Diabetes, Thyroid & Hormone Specialist
📞 9979992797
