Now a novel drug delivery system has been developed that requires just one injection every four months for diabetes, instead of daily or weekly injections. This could significantly improve the quality of life for those affected.
Recent research involving experts at Stanford University examined a new injectable hydrogel depot technology that allows a diabetes drug to be delivered for months, eliminating the need for daily or weekly injections. The study results are published in the specialist magazine “Cell Reports Medicine”.
Problems in the treatment of diabetes
So-called long-acting GLP-1 receptor agonists are of central importance for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. However, since they have to be taken daily or weekly, such therapies are very stressful, the researchers explain. Less frequent administration could significantly reduce the burden on those affected.
The team therefore used injectable hydrogel depot technology to develop a GLP-1 RA drug that requires significantly less frequent administration. Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) is released by the intestine in response to nutrients to stimulate insulin secretion and block glucagon secretion depending on glucose, the researchers explain.
The researchers have already been able to confirm in rats that a single injection of the hydrogel-based therapy maintains GLP-1 RA exposure for 42 days. The experts report that this corresponds to an effect over a period of four months in humans.
Effect comparable to daily injections
The effect of hydrogel therapy on blood sugar and weight is comparable to daily injections of a leading GLP-1 RA drug. The new approach seems particularly promising for effectively dealing with type 2 diabetes.
Increased adherence and better outcomes
According to experts, such a system will significantly improve the treatment of diabetes, especially since the treatment will also increase adherence and thus achieve better results in the long term.
“Treatment adherence is one of the biggest challenges in the treatment of type 2 diabetes,” explains study author Professor Eric Appel in a press release. Since the newly developed hydrogel enables the slow release of medication over many months, significant advantages can be expected here.
“If only three injections were needed per year, it would be much easier for people with diabetes or obesity to stick to their medication regimen,” adds the doctor.
In addition, according to the team, the new method is also promising as a delivery system for other drugs and could therefore also be used in other diseases. (as)
