Novo Nordisk launches shortest ever NovoFine Plus needle

Novo Nordisk has announced the launch of NovoFine Plus 32G 4 mm, a universal pen needle designed to be the manufacturer's shortest ever.

The ultra-thin, ultra-short needle is compatible with all major pen devices and aims to make injections more comfortable for patients with diabetes. It is as thin as two human hairs and is only 4 mm long.

Its minimal size is associated with less pain and a reduced risk of intramuscular injection, which could help to combat the anxiety that many diabetes patients experience when it comes to insulin therapy.

Canada will be the first territory in which NovoFine Plus is launched, with further releases to follow in other countries during 2014 and 2015.

Jesper Klove, senior vice-president for device research and development at Novo Nordisk, said: "Novo Nordisk is committed to improving diabetes care and as part of our broad portfolio within treatment, devices and needles, we're pleased to provide this new option to people with diabetes."

The company saw strong business growth during 2013, thanks to rising demand for diabetes therapies such as Victoza, Levemir and NovoRapid.