Novo Nordisk reports safe reduction of HbA1c in Levemir patients

Novo Nordisk has announced the results of a new study assessing the safety and efficacy of Levemir (insulin detemir [rDNA origin] injection), with the company reporting a safe reduction in HbA1c in patients using self-adjusted dosing.

At the scientific sessions of the American Diabetes Association in Chicago, the company reports that the improvements in blood sugar level in these patients was comparable to that seen when dosing is adjusted by healthcare professionals.

Levemir is a long-acting modern insulin that is administered subcutaneously once or twice a day as a treatment for hyperglycaemia in patients with type one or two diabetes mellitus, with a 24-hour duration of action.

Luigi Meneghini, associate professor of clinical medicine at the Diabetes Research Institute, said: “The study is a testament to the safety of Levemir, as patients were able to adjust their basal insulin dose on their own and achieve the same level of glycaemic control as when guided by their doctor, while reducing the risk of hypoglycaemia.”

He added that these trial results will enable type two diabetes patients to take a greater role in the management of their condition, enhancing the patient role in the partnership with their physician.

In April 2007, Novo Nordisk announced the results of the Predictive study which showed Levemir to be effective in controlling diabetes while preventing weight gain.