Tag: Diabetes

Benefits of Semaglutide as per study published in Nature Medicine

KV Prasad Jun 13, 2022, 06:35 AM IST (Published)

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A recent study featured in the medical journal Nature Medicine has indicated that semaglutide, a medication used for treating diabetes and aiding weight loss, can reduce the likelihood of major heart issues by 20%.

Semaglutide, administered weekly via injection, belongs to the GLP-1 group of drugs, primarily prescribed for adults with Type 2 diabetes but also approved for weight management. Novo Nordisk’s semaglutide drugs, Wegovy and Ozempic, hold a significant market share globally, contributing $8.7 billion in sales for the company in the previous quarter.

The study, which focused on over 17,000 adults with heart conditions, overweight, or obesity but without diabetes, demonstrated promising results. Over a span of 65 weeks, patients experienced consistent weight loss with semaglutide, a trend that persisted for up to 4 years.

By the 208th week, individuals on semaglutide had shed approximately 10% of their body weight and 7.7 cm from their waistlines, in contrast to a mere 1.5% reduction in body weight and 1.3 cm decrease in waistlines among those not using the medication. This weight loss trend was observed across various demographics, including genders, races, body types, and geographical regions.

Furthermore, the data indicated that semaglutide exhibited fewer adverse effects and helped in preventing health complications, particularly in individuals with higher Body Mass Index (BMI).

Besides Novo Nordisk, Eli Lily too has introduced its weight loss drug Zepbound and diabetes drug Mounjaro, both GLP 1 class of drugs with molecules different from Semaglutide.

This research though focused on semaglutide is is deemed crucial by experts as it provides statistics of the importance of weight loss across various demographic groups helping then in personalised care strategies for maintaining health.

For example, experts underscore the escalating health risks associated with weight gain and obesity, noting that the prevalence of individuals with a BMI of 30 or higher has tripled since 1975. Excessive body fat, particularly around vital organs, heightens the risks of developing heart disease, diabetes, and other chronic ailments.

Conversely, even modest weight loss, around 5%, can enhance heart and blood sugar health, with greater weight loss, ideally exceeding 10%, yielding even more significant benefits.

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Cipla aims to venture into India’s weight loss drug market

KV Prasad Jun 13, 2022, 06:35 AM IST (Published)

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From crossing $900 million in US sales in the fiscal year 2024 to holding the top position as a prescription company in South Africa, Cipla showcased positive numbers across various fronts.

The pharmaceutical giant also revealed its strategic intent to venture into the weight loss segment in India, tapping into the growing demand for solutions to combat obesity.

While Cipla is working on an obesity drug, the pharma major is also open to market US drugmaker Eli Lilly’s weight loss drugs in India. The drugmaker already has an existing partnership with Lilly to sell and promote Eli Lilly’s diabetes drugs in the country.

Cipla emphasised its focus on maintaining a base-level margin of $215 million to $220 million for its US operations, demonstrating a strategic balance between growth and profitability.

Also Read: Cipla Q4 Results: Topline and margins below estimates; ₹13 per share dividend announced

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56.4% of disease burden in India due to unhealthy diets, says ICMR

KV Prasad Jun 13, 2022, 06:35 AM IST (Published)

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Estimates show that 56.4% of total disease burden in India is due to unhealthy diets, the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) said as it released 17 dietary guidelines to meet the requirements of essential nutrients and prevent non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as obesity and diabetes.

The National Institute of Nutrition (NIN) under the apex health research body said that healthy diets and physical activity can reduce a substantial proportion of coronary heart disease (CHD) and hypertension (HTN) and prevent up to 80% of type 2 diabetes.

“A significant proportion of premature deaths can be averted by following a healthy lifestyle,” it said, adding that the upsurge in the consumption of highly processed foods laden with sugars and fats, coupled with reduced physical activity and limited access to diverse foods, exacerbate micronutrient deficiencies and overweight issues.

The NIN recommended restricting salt intake, using oils and fat in moderation, doing proper exercise, minimising sugar and ultra-processed foods.

It also suggested adopting a healthy lifestyle to prevent obesity and reading information on food labels to make informed and healthy food choices.

The Dietary Guidelines for Indians (DGIs) has been drafted by a multi-disciplinary committee of experts led by Dr Hemalatha R, Director, ICMR-NIN and has undergone several scientific review.

Seventeen guidelines have been listed in the DGI.

“Through the DGIs, we emphasise that the most logical, sustainable, and long-term solution to all forms of malnutrition is ensuring the availability, accessibility and affordability of nutrient-rich foods while promoting the consumption of diverse foods. The guidelines contain in them scientific evidence-based information that would facilitate the attainment of goals stated in the National Nutrition Policy,” Hemlatha said.

The dietary habits of Indians have undergone significant changes over the past few decades, leading to an increase in the prevalence of non-communicable diseases while some of the problems of undernutrition continue to persist, said Dr Rajiv Bahl, Director General, ICMR.

“I am pleased that these guidelines have been made very relevant to the changing food scenario in India with the addition of practicable messages and suggestions on handling food safety choosing minimally processed foods, the importance of food labels, and physical activity. I am sure these will complement the government’s efforts to promote holistic nutrition and health of our people,” Bahl said.

Referring to non-communicable diseases, the NIN said that 34% of children between 5-9 years of age suffer from high triglycerides.

A balanced diet should provide not more than 45% calories from cereals, and millets and up to 15% of calories from pulses, beans and meat. Rest of the calories should come from nuts, vegetables, fruits and milk, the guidelines said.

Due to the limited availability and high cost of pulses and meat, a significant proportion of the Indian population relies heavily on cereals, resulting in poor intake of essential macronutrients (essential amino acids and essential fatty acids) and micronutrients, the NIN said.

Low intake of essential nutrients can disrupt metabolism and increase the risk of insulin resistance and associated disorders from a young age, it said.

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Sanofi India shares gain on launch of diabetes drug Soliqua

KV Prasad Jun 13, 2022, 06:35 AM IST (Published)

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Sanofi India Ltd shares gained on Tuesday after the company announced the launch of its new diabetes drug, Soliqua. The pharmaceutical company launched the diabetes treatment drug in India after securing marketing authorisation from the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) earlier last year.

Priced at ₹1,850 per pen, Soliqua is a convenient once-daily injectable combination drug that combines insulin glargine 100 units per ml and long-acting basal insulin with lixisenatide.

This combination is aimed at helping adults with obesity and type 2 diabetes mellitus better manage their blood sugar levels when oral or injectable therapies alone are not sufficient.

As reported by news agency PTI, commenting on the launch, Cyrus Aibara, Head Diabetes Business Unit at Sanofi India, said, “The inclusion of Soliqua to our comprehensive diabetes portfolio (orals and injectables) eases therapy initiation, which helps those prescribed, keep their blood sugar in control more effectively.”

After the announcement, shares of Sanofi India Ltd gained as much as 1.66% to hit an intraday high of ₹8,419.75 apiece on the BSE. However, the pharma stock pared some of its early gains to trade 0.51% higher at ₹8,324.55 apiece at 3:14 pm.

Earlier this week, Sanofi India on April 26, informed the stock exchanges that a meeting of its Board of Directors will be held on May 13, 2024. The Board will consider and approve the unaudited financial statements (standalone and consolidated) for the quarter ended March 31, 2024, the company said.

Sanofi India, a leading drug marker, focuses on various therapeutic areas such as diabetes, transplants, rare diseases, consumer healthcare, and vaccines. As part of the global healthcare company Sanofi, the Indian entity is primarily engaged in offering life-changing treatments and life-saving vaccines while prioritising sustainability.

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Diabetes and Lifestyle: Medicine Box

KV Prasad Jun 13, 2022, 06:35 AM IST (Published)

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India is known as the diabetes capital of the world with almost 10-12% of the population in Indian cities affected by diabetes. Dr David Chandy, endocrinologist at Sir HN Reliance Foundation Hospital said that the primary reason for the rising prevalence of diabetes is the drastic change in lifestyle, marked by increased consumption of processed foods which are rich in maida, oily substances, refined flour, sugar, jaggery, and honey. Insufficient attention to exercise further exacerbates the problem.

However, it is important to differentiate between Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes. While Type 1 diabetes is characterised by insulin deficiency and is irreversible, Type 2 diabetes is commonly associated with genetics and obesity. However, disciplined lifestyle modifications can often reverse Type 2 diabetes.

According to Dr. Chandy, incorporating just 30 minutes of exercise into daily routines can make a significant difference in managing diabetes. He said the ‘Thin Fat Indian’ phenotype, where individuals may appear to have normal weight and height but harbor excess belly fat weakens insulin effectiveness and exhausts the pancreas making people prone to diabetes.

Dr. Chandy stressed the importance of addressing lifestyle factors before resorting to medication. He spends a significant amount of time counselling patients on the significance of lifestyle modifications, focusing on food habits, exercise routines, and sleep patterns. Sleep, in particular, has gained recognition in recent years for its crucial role in diabetes management, with good sleep aiding in stress reduction and blood sugar control. According to him 6.5 to 7 hours recommended per night.

Dispelling common myths, Dr. Chandy clarified misconceptions surrounding foods like jaggery and honey, often considered healthy alternatives to sugar. He explained that while natural, they contain high levels of sucrose and glucose, which can spike blood sugar levels, particularly in diabetics. When it comes to fruits, he said, one should focus on those rich in fiber, such as apples, pears, and oranges, which are beneficial for diabetes management.

Addressing concerns about meal timings and composition, Dr. Chandy recommended a balanced approach, with meals resembling a traditional Indian Thali. He emphasised the importance of portion control, especially with carbohydrates, and the need for regular meal timings to maintain blood sugar levels.

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Weight gain to poor mental health, how sitting for long hours affects your health

KV Prasad Jun 13, 2022, 06:35 AM IST (Published)

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If your job requires you to sit for hours, you may be prone to several diseases. Several studies say that sitting for long hours at a stretch can cause irreversible damage to our bodies and have various negative health consequences. Researchers in Western’s School of Kinesiology, in its report, suggested that the ones who often find themselves seated for up to 80 per cent of their workday are vulnerable to potential health risks like Type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, certain types of cancer, and high blood pressure among others. In this article, let’s understand how sitting for long hours affects your health:

Weight gain and obesity

The decreased calorie expenditure caused due to sitting at a stretch may result in weight gain and obesity. The weight gain is due to the lesser burning of calories while sitting compared to standing or moving. For maximum calorie burning, take regular breaks, stretch, and move around. Incorporate physical activity during your work routine to avoid health complications.

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Cardiovascular diseases

Another risk caused by sitting for hours includes cardiovascular disease as the blood flow and metabolism are reduced. Aim to stand or move around for at least a few minutes every hour and incorporate activities like walking, cycling, or swimming.

Type 2 diabetes

The possibility of type 2 diabetes also increases due to sitting straight for more than an hour. This can be attributed to reduced insulin sensitivity and glucose metabolism. However, regular physical activity throughout the day can help to avoid the disease.

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Affected mental well-being

Inactivity has also been linked to poor mental health outcomes. This means that a person, who sits idle for hours, is prone to the risk of depression and anxiety. To avoid being sad, it is a must to indulge in physical activities as they are proven to uplift mood and alleviate stress. Additionally, it is suggested to maintain a healthy lifestyle to mitigate the risks associated with prolonged sitting.

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Lupin targets $250 million in quarterly US sales in 3-4 years

KV Prasad Jun 13, 2022, 06:35 AM IST (Published)

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Pharmaceutical giant Lupin is confident of surpassing $1 billion in US sales in the next few years. In an interview with CNBC-TV18, Ramesh Swaminathan, the company’s Executive Director, Global CFO & Head of Corporate Affairs, said the company will be able to hit a quarterly sales run rate of $250 million in the US in 3-4 years from $200 million now.

Lupin expects a substantial contribution to its US sales from the respiratory portfolio, with anticipated revenues reaching around $300 million.

The company is working aggressively to reach margin of 20-23% soon, he said. The company’s last quarter margin was at 18.7%.

Also Read | Lupin shares hit 52-week high after Nomura sees nearly 18% upside

He highlighted the huge opportunity for Lupin in specific drugs like the diabetes and obesity drug semaglutide, which is a big hit in the US market.

Price erosion in the US has slowed down, he said, adding that for Lupin the erosion would be in the low single-digits on a year on year basis

Also Read | Lupin’s Swiss arm to acquire established products from Sanofi for Rs 91 crore

Headquartered in Mumbai, this multinational pharmaceutical firm from India boasts a market capitalisation of Rs 63,729.78 crore. The company emphasises various medical domains such as paediatrics, cardiovascular health, anti-infectives, diabetology, asthma, and anti-tuberculosis solutions.

For the entire interview, watch the accompanying video

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Thursday’s filing dispelled some doubts, though Musk still has work to do. He and his advisers will spend the coming days vetting potential investors for the equity portion of his offer, according to people familiar with the matter

KV Prasad Journo follow politics, process in Parliament and US Congress. Former Congressional APSA-Fulbright Fellow

World Diabetes Day 2023: Types, causes and precaution to avoid this chronic disease

KV Prasad Jun 13, 2022, 06:35 AM IST (Published)

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World Diabetes Day is observed on November 14 every year to spread awareness about the health condition that affects millions of people across the world. It is a global observance day aimed at highlighting and supporting all efforts towards containing this disease.

Diabetes is a condition that occurs when the blood sugar level gets too high. It is generally developed when the pancreas doesn’t create enough insulin or any at all, or when the body isn’t responding to the effects of insulin properly. Diabetes can affect people of all ages. Most forms of diabetes are chronic and last for a long while most of such forms are manageable with medications and lifestyle changes.

Types of Diabetes

There are several types of diabetes, however, these four types are the most common ones found in most people.

Type 2 diabetes
Pre-diabetes
Type 1 diabetes
Gestational diabetes

Causes and Symptoms of Diabetes

The primary cause of the occurrence of diabetes is the formation of too much glucose in the body. However, the reason behind the increase in the glucose higher than the body needs could be different from one person to another. The reason of spike in blood sugar levels could be a result of one of the following reasons:

Insulin resistance
Autoimmune disease
Hormonal imbalances
Pancreatic damage
Genetic mutations
Meanwhile, the symptoms of this health condition include increased thirst and dry mouth, frequent urination, fatigue, blurred vision, rapid weight loss, numbness or tingling in feet and hands and slow healing of sores, wounds and cuts.

Precautions of Diabetes

One definitely cannot prevent the autoimmune and genetic forms of diabetes. However, there are some steps that can be taken to lower the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes and gestational diabetes. Here are a few precautionary measures to avoid the disease:

Taking a healthy diet
Get physically active
Manage your stress
Limit alcohol intake
Get adequate sleep
Quit smoking
Take medications as directed by a physician to manage existing risk factors for heart disease.
World

Diabetes Day 2023: History and Significance

World Diabetes Day was established by the International Diabetes Foundation (IDF) in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO) in 1991. After the establishment, it was declared a global day in 2006 after the United Nations passed a resolution.

November 14, the birth anniversary of Sir Frederick Banting, who discovered insulin with Charles Best in 1922, was chosen as World Diabetes Day.

The day marks the significance of reaching the maximum number of people globally to promote a platform to cure diabetes and its treatment. A blue circle logo was initiated by the UN, in 2007, as a global symbol to create awareness regarding the condition and the community associated with it.

World Diabetes Day 2023: Theme

The theme for World Diabetes Day 2023 is ‘Access to diabetes care’ which will emphasise the importance of equal access to essential care and treatment for diabetes.

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Zydus Lifesciences gets USFDA nod for drug used for treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus patients

KV Prasad Jun 13, 2022, 06:35 AM IST (Published)

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Zydus Lifesciences on Monday, November 6, said it has received the final approval from the United States Food and Drug Administration (USFDA) for Zituvimet to treat adult patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Zituvimettm tablets in the strength of 50 mg/500 mg and 50 mg/1000 mg comprise active ingredients sitagliptin, a dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitor, and metformin hydrochloride (HCl), a biguanide, Zydus Lifesciences said in a stock exchange filing. The new drug is used to improve glycemic control in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

The pharma company said Zituvimet has undergone quality testing for Nitrosamines and potential genotoxic impurities as per the present USFDA standards. The new product is also compliant with present USFDA standards of Nitrosamines in Sitagliptin containing products.

According to IQVIA data, the US market for DPP-IV inhibitors and their combinations is $10 billion at the 12 months ended August 2023.

“The Zituvimet approval further builds on our previous approval of Zituvimet (Sitagliptin) and offers an increased accessibility and affordability to healthcare systems with regard to prescription drugs for type II diabetes,” Sharvil Patel, the managing director of Zydus Lifesciences, said.

The Ahmedabad-based pharma major manufactures and markets a broad range of active pharmaceutical ingredients (API) and formulations. The Zydus group has research facilities across Gujarat, Maharashtra, Goa, Himachal Pradesh and Sikkim.

In September, Zydus Lifesciences received an establishment inspection report (EIR) from the USFDA for its facility at Pharmez in Ahmedabad with zero observations.

Shares of Zydus Lifesciences were trading 0.3% higher at ₹586.35 apiece on BSE at 9:34am.

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This 26-year-old Masterchef contestant has started two companies to serve fellow diabetics

KV Prasad Jun 13, 2022, 06:35 AM IST (Published)

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Harsh Kedia was just 14 when he was diagnosed with type 1.5 diabetes. After being constantly told what not to eat as a diabetic, Kedia began spending time in the kitchen, cooking dishes that would not just appeal to his palate but also conform to the imposed food restrictions.

Latent Autoimmune Diabetes in Adults, or LADA, also referred to as 1.5 diabetes, has qualities of both type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Unlike type 2, type 1.5 cannot be reversed.

While this was the beginning of his journey to establish A Diabetic Chef and Conscious Mithaiwala, his love for food began much earlier on in life, when he was 8 years old.

“I used to visit a friend’s house. His parents were working and I used to see him cook food by himself, and I used to wonder what he was up to. And then, while he used to do that, I thought I wanted to give it a shot as well. So he extended a hand in his kitchen. I just thought it would be nice to learn how things are. And I gradually developed an urge to cook.”

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Kedia, now 26, founded A Diabetic Chef in 2013 and Conscious Mithaiwala Sugarless Halwai in 2023.

His company A Diabetic Chef produces and sell zero-sugar confectionery like chocolates and spreads. Conscious Mithaiwala, on the other hand, is a shop selling Indian sweets and confectionery. 

“Necessity was literary the mother of invention in my case! I had to look up a lot of things that I could eat, couldn’t eat. A lot of knowledge-sharing helped me. A lot of like, conversations and interviews with the American Diabetes Federation, a lot of diabetologist.”

The doors of Conscious Mithaiwala Sugarless Halwai opened on Sunday, October 22, 2023. Kedia expects good revenue from his physical store.

Kedia said the actual sales and profit numbers could not be disclosed as both his brands are in the middle of raising funds for the first time. Since its inception, A Diabetic Chef has grown 150% year-on-year, he claims.

Before embarking on his entrepreneurial journey, Kedia had worked with Foxy Moron (social media agency), Le 15 Patisserie, Mooch Design Studio (stationary manufacturer), House Of Kedi (gender-neutral clothing brand), and Brand And Butter (branding, strategy and design consultancy). He is a two-time Forbes India and Asia 30 under 30 winner. Kedia was also a contestant on Master Chef India Season 8.

According to the Indian Council of Medical Research – India Diabetes (ICMR INDIAB) study published in 2023, the prevalence of diabetes in the country is 10.1 crores.

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Thursday’s filing dispelled some doubts, though Musk still has work to do. He and his advisers will spend the coming days vetting potential investors for the equity portion of his offer, according to people familiar with the matter

KV Prasad Journo follow politics, process in Parliament and US Congress. Former Congressional APSA-Fulbright Fellow