The FDA has approved Xultophy 100/3.6 (Novo Nordisk), a fixed-ratio combination of insulin degludec and the GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) receptor agonist liraglutide, for once-daily treatment of adults with type 2 diabetes inadequately controlled on basal insulin (<50 units daily) or liraglutide (≤1.8 mg daily).
Soliqua 100/33, a long-acting insulin/GLP-1 receptor agonist combination that contains insulin glargine (Lantus, and others) and lixisenatide (Adlyxin), has also recently become available in the US.1
GLP-1 RECEPTOR AGONISTS — GLP-1 receptor agonists lower glucose levels by potentiating glucose-dependent insulin secretion, suppressing postprandial glucagon secretion, slowing gastric emptying, and promoting satiety. They lower glycated hemoglobin (A1C) by about 1-1.5%, have been associated with weight loss of 1.5-2.8 kg, and rarely cause hypoglycemia.
- Drugs for Asthma
- Comparison Table: Some Inhaled Drugs for Treatment of Asthma (online only)
- Comparison Table: Correct Use of Inhalers for Asthma (online only)
The FDA has approved the steroid prasterone (Intrarosa – Endoceutics) for intravaginal treatment of postmenopausal women with moderate-to-severe dyspareunia due to vulvovaginal atrophy (VVA). Also called dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), prasterone is produced in the adrenal glands, gonads, and brain and converted intracellularly into active metabolites of estrogens and androgens. DHEA has been available over the counter for years as an oral dietary supplement claimed to benefit sexual, cardiovascular, and neuropsychiatric dysfunction.
