INTRODUCTION: A stepwise coordinated multiple therapeutic targeted approach to the treatment of type 2 diabetes includes starting with lifestyle modification, oral antihyperglycemic agents, non-insulin injectables (Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs), and both short and long-acting insulins. Ultra-long-acting insulins offer more convenient administration. As in any chronic disease, the introduction of a novel medication must balance safety, efficacy, financial cost, as well as improved patient convenience and adherence.
AREAS COVERED: This manuscript describes IcoSema - a new investigational fixed-ratio combination of basal insulin icodec and the GLP-1 RA semaglutide. The key trials from the clinical development process of insulin icodec, semaglutide, and IcoSema are reviewed with important endpoints highlighted.
EXPERT OPINION: Once-weekly IcoSema offers glycemic efficacy that is non-inferior to glargine+aspart, similar risk of hypoglycemia, significant reduction in body weight, the convenience of use, and favorable safety profile with most adverse events being gastrointestinal.
