Two New Diabetes Medications Now Available

Ozempic (semaglutide injection) and Fiasp (insulin aspart injection), 2 recently-approved diabetes treatments, are now available in US pharmacies, according to Novo Nordisk.

Ozempic, a once-weekly glucagon-like peptide (GLP-1) receptor agonist, is indicated as an adjunct to diet and exercise to improve glycemic control in adults with type 2 diabetes; it is intended for subcutaneous injection.

Semaglutide reduces blood glucose through a mechanism where it stimulates insulin secretion and lowers glucagon secretion, both in a glucose-dependent manner. Thus, when blood glucose is high, insulin secretion is stimulated and glucagon secretion is inhibited. 

Fiasp, a fast-acting mealtime insulin, is indicated to improve glycemic control in adults with type 1 and type 2 diabetes; it is intended for subcutaneous injection or intravenous infusion.

Receptor-bound insulin lowers blood glucose by facilitating cellular uptake of glucose into skeletal muscle and adipose tissue and by inhibiting the output of glucose from the liver. Insulin inhibits lipolysis in the adipocyte, inhibits proteolysis, and enhances protein synthesis.

Ozempic is available as 0.5 mg and 1 mg strength injections in single-use pens that deliver 0.25 mg, 0.5 mg, or 1 mg per injection. Fiasp 100 units/mL is available in 10 mL multi-dose vials and in 3 mL single-use FlexTouch pens.

Reference

Novo Nordisk launches Ozempic® and Fiasp®, expanding treatment options for adults with diabetes [press release]. Plainsboro, NJ; PRNewswire: February 5, 2018. Accessed February 7, 2018.

This article originally appeared on MPR