Novo Nordisk has unveiled new data on its diabetes treatment Xultophy (insulin degludec/liraglutide) which supports its efficacy in reducing risk factors associated with an increased risk of developing cardiovascular disease.

In the study, patients administered with Xultophy as opposed to basal insulin were observed to have significantly lower systolic blood pressure, lower total cholesterol – including low-density lipoprotein, or ‘bad cholesterol’ – and less drastic changes in weight.

Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death and disability in patients suffering from type 2 diabetes, accounting for around two-thirds of all deaths in the disease area. "Treatments for type 2 diabetes should not only lower blood sugar levels but also decrease CV risk," Novo Nordisk stated on the release of the new data.

"This added benefit of Xultophy is certainly great news for the population at risk of developing cardiovascular disease on top of their existing type 2 diabetes", said Mads Krogsgaard Thomsen, Executive Vice President and Chief Science Officer of Novo Nordisk. "At Novo Nordisk we strive to develop innovative treatments, reinforcing our long-term commitment to defeat diabetes. Xultophy is a key component of this commitment."

Xultophy is indicated for the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus to improve glycaemic control in combination with oral glucose-lowering medicinal products in adults for whom these alone or combined with basal insulin do not produce adequate results.

"People with type 2 diabetes have a higher risk of a heart attack or stroke compared to the general population, so reducing this risk as much as possible should be a central goal of treatment", said Professor Tina Vilsbøll, Steno Diabetes Center and Center for Diabetes Research, Gentofte Hospital. "I am very pleased to see the beneficial effects on cardiovascular risk markers provided by Xultophy."