The once per week Trulicity label from Eli Lilly and Co (NYSE:LLY) has been updated. The changes, which have been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) will incorporate the use of the label in combination with basal insulin for adults with type 2 diabetes. The once-weekly glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist injectable prescription medicine is expected to help in the improvement of blood sugar (glucose) in a majority of those suffering from type 2 diabetes. However, it must be used alongside goof diet lots of exercises.
Vice president, Global Medical Affairs, Lilly Diabetes, and Sherry Martin is of the opinion that Trulicity is a powerful option thanks to its efficacy. She writes, “Despite best efforts to manage their A1C, many adults with type 2 diabetes may need to add to or change their treatment plan to help them reach their blood sugar goals.”
The Trulicity label update is based on FDA review of results from the AWARD-9 clinical trial
The FDA’s approval of Eli Lilly’s label was not just a by the way and neither did it come on a silver platter. It was as a result of 28-week randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, study of AWARD-9. The trial evaluated the drug’s efficacy and safety in comparison with placebo. The end result was that the 1.5 mg Trulicity triggered a significant reduction in A1C of close to 1.4% unlike placebo, which had 0.7%. Nonetheless, the results were also inclusive of an AWARD-8 clinical trial which was also a 24-week study of the Trulicity.
But the administration of once-weekly Trulicity has its drawbacks
First, it is not recommended as the initial treatment for diabetes and neither is it a substitute for insulin. People with type 1 diabetes are not in any way allowed to use neither should be used by anyone with a history of severe stomach or intestinal problems. It is equally advisable to consult a healthcare provider in the occurrence of a lump or swelling in the neck while taking Trulicity. Other serious side effects of using Trulicity include kidney problems, serious allergic reactions, inflammation and severe stomach problems among others.
Meanwhile, Eli Lilly’s stock was trading at $78.11 witnessing an increase of $0.41 or 0.53%.