Update on Basal Insulin Therapy for Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

Although it is possible for patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus to achieve glycemic control with lifestyle changes and oral medications, many patients require insulin therapy to achieve adequate glycemic control. Long-acting basal insulins are the cornerstone of all insulin regimens. More novel basal insulins created to exhibit superior pharmacokinetic profiles are now being developed; recently, two novel long-acting basal insulins with superior pharmacokinetic profiles have emerged on the market. Insulin icodec, a once-weekly, ultralong-acting basal insulin analogue is currently in development for the treatment of diabetes. Additionally, biosimilar products are becoming more common and offer more costsaving options for patients. Pharmacists must be knowledgeable about how novel basal insulins differ from traditional insulin analogues.