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FDA Approves Awiqli, First Once-Weekly Basal Insulin for Type 2 Diabetes

The weekly shot could improve adherence by replacing daily injections with one dose.

Overview

  • FDA approval makes Novo Nordisk’s Awiqli the first long-acting basal insulin dosed once a week for adults with type 2 diabetes as an add-on to diet and exercise.
  • The decision is supported by ONWARDS Phase 3a data from four active-controlled trials in about 2,680 adults that showed reductions in HbA1c compared with daily basal insulin.
  • Across the ONWARDS studies, safety was overall consistent with the known profile of basal insulin according to the company.
  • Patients take Awiqli on the same day each week using a prefilled FlexTouch pen that delivers a U-700 concentration.
  • Novo Nordisk plans a U.S. launch in the second half of 2026 using the FlexTouch device, and the therapy already has approvals in the European Union and 13 other countries.