In people with type 2 diabetes who fast during Ramadan, Ryzodeg® (insulin degludec/insulin aspart) reduced the overall rate of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) including severe episodes by 62% and the rate of nocturnal hypoglycemia by 74% versus biphasic insulin aspart 30. The trial results were presented at the International Diabetes Federation Congress 2017 (IDF 2017).
“Millions of people with type 2 diabetes participate in Ramadan every year and we know that periods of prolonged fasting can increase the risk of hypoglycemia,” said lead investigator Dr. Mohamed Hassanein of the Dubai Hospital, Dubai Health Authority, UAE and chair of the Diabetes and Ramadan International Alliance (DAR).
“This highlights the importance of people with type 2 diabetes preparing for Ramadan with their doctor and discussing treatment options for preventing episodes of hypoglycemia.”
It is estimated that worldwide over 116 million Muslims with diabetes may choose to fast during Ramadan. Muslims with type 2 diabetes who fast during Ramadan have up to a 7.5-fold increased risk of severe hypoglycemia.
“This trial has shown that Ryzodeg® is not only a simple treatment option which can make daily life easier for people with diabetes. Ryzodeg® also reduces the risk of potentially dangerous episodes of hypoglycemia in people with type 2 diabetes who choose to fast during Ramadan,” said Mads Krogsgaard Thomsen, executive vice president and chief science officer of Novo Nordisk.
The trial was designed to investigate the effects of Ryzodeg® on blood sugar control and hypoglycemia reduction versus BIAsp 30 both at the end of Ramadan and 4 weeks post-Ramadan. There was no difference in overall blood sugar control between Ryzodeg® and BIAsp 30.
