Eli Lilly’s once-weekly insulin shows promise in phase 3 trials

New treatment could simplify diabetes management for millions

Eli Lilly and Company has announced promising results from two phase 3 clinical trials, QWINT-1 and QWINT-3, evaluating the efficacy of once-weekly insulin efsitora alfa (efsitora) in adults with type 2 diabetes.

The trials demonstrated that efsitora provides a similar reduction in HbA1C levels compared to daily insulin injections.

“Once weekly basal insulins, like efsitora, have the potential to transform diabetes care,” reflected Jeff Emmick, Senior Vice President, Product Development at Lilly. “Many type 2 diabetes patients are reluctant to start insulin because of the burden it places on them. Once-weekly efsitora could potentially make it easier for people with type 2 diabetes to start and manage insulin therapy, while reducing the impact it has on their day-to-day lives.”

In the QWINT-1 study, efsitora was administered via four fixed doses once weekly in a single-use autoinjector to insulin-naïve adults.

The trial met its primary endpoint, showing non-inferior HbA1C reduction compared to daily insulin glargine over 52 weeks. Efsitora reduced HbA1C by 1.31%, resulting in an HbA1C of 6.92%, compared to a 1.27% reduction and an HbA1C of 6.96% for insulin glargine.

The QWINT-3 study evaluated efsitora in adults switching from daily basal insulin injections. Over 78 weeks, efsitora demonstrated non-inferior HbA1C reduction compared to daily insulin degludec, further supporting its potential as a convenient alternative for diabetes management.

These findings suggest that once-weekly efsitora could simplify insulin therapy for people with type 2 diabetes, potentially improving adherence and overall quality of life.