Novo Nordisk launches once-weekly insulin Awiqli in India
Analysis based on 22 articles · First reported Jul 09, 2026 · Last updated Jul 10, 2026
The launch strengthens Novo Nordisk's position in India's growing insulin market, projected to reach $916.4 million by 2034. It may pressure competitors like Sanofi, Biocon, Eris Lifesciences, and Lupin to innovate or adjust pricing.
Novo Nordisk launched Awiqli (insulin icodec), the world's first once-weekly basal insulin, in India on July 9, 2026. Awiqli is approved for adults with type 1 and type 2 diabetes, reducing injections from 365 to 52 per year. India has over 101 million people with diabetes and 136 million with prediabetes. The launch aims to overcome barriers to insulin initiation, which is delayed by 7-9 years due to fear of injections and cost. Awiqli is priced competitively at Rs 3.73 per unit, roughly 30-40% less expensive than daily options. It is based on the ONWARDS clinical program showing superior HbA1c reduction and time in range versus daily glargine. India is the seventh country to launch Awiqli after the US, EU, and others. The product will compete with Sanofi's Lantus and domestic insulin glargine products from Biocon, Eris Lifesciences, and Lupin. Novo Nordisk also faces competition from Eli Lilly in the obesity market.
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