Sanofi India Limited made a significant stride in diabetes management with the launch of Soliqua, its innovative diabetes drug, in India. The announcement, made on Wednesday, marks a pivotal moment in the battle against type 2 diabetes, following the receipt of marketing authorization from the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) last year.
Soliqua, as indicated by the company, is tailored for adults grappling with obesity and type 2 diabetes mellitus. It serves as an adjunct to diet and exercise, targeting to enhance glycemic control in those inadequately managed on oral or injectable therapies.
In a statement, the company highlighted the complexities individuals face while managing type 2 diabetes, including weight gain, hypoglycemia, and the hassle of multiple injections. Soliqua aims to alleviate these challenges by providing sustained blood sugar control through a convenient once-daily injection, seamlessly integrating into patients’ lifestyles.
Cyrus Aibara, Head of the Diabetes Business Unit at Sanofi (India), emphasized the pressing need for effective glycemic control, especially in a country where over 100 million people are grappling with type 2 diabetes. Despite existing treatments, a significant portion of this population struggles with uncontrolled blood sugar levels, exposing them to higher risks of complications. Soliqua, a combination drug comprising insulin glargine 100 Units/ml and lixisenatide, offers a promising solution. Clinical trials have showcased its efficacy in sugar control without the associated risks of weight gain and hypoglycemia, compared to traditional insulin therapies.
Dr. Shalini Menon, Country Medical Lead at Sanofi (India), underscored the significance of Soliqua’s accessibility. Priced at a nominal therapy cost of Rs. 1850 per pen, the drug opens doors to a wider demographic of patients battling type 2 diabetes mellitus, promising a more effective and streamlined approach to diabetes management.