Lixisenatide/glargine - a novel fixed-ratio combination and its position in the treatment of type 2 diabetes
Abstract
The advantage of fixed-ratio combinations over separate administration of respective components includes simplicity for the patient along with a significant potential to improvement of the long-term compliance to such therapy. Fixed-ratio combination of GLP-1 receptor agonist lixisenatide and long-acting insulin analogue glargine with a concentration of 100 IU/ml that will be shortly introduced to Czech market under the name Suliqua represents an example of such medication.
Suliqua has shown significantly better efficacy in diabetes control relative to its single components in both type 2 diabetes patients treated by oral antidiabetic drugs or by combination of long-acting insulin and oral antidiabetic drugs. Another important advantage is the fact, that Suliqua, in addition to its simple administration and excellent efficacy, has less gastrointestinal side effects that lixisenatide alone and does not lead to weight gain seen with separate glargine treatment.
Suliqua will be available in two fixed ratios of glargine and lixisenatide 2:1 and 3:1 which will allow individualization of ratio of both components for particular patient.