The proportion of patients who achieved target HbA1c levels was similar in both groups, at 49% with insulin degludec and 50% with insulin glargine, they said (Lancet 2012;379:1498-507).
Rates of overall hypoglycemia were significantly lower with insulin degludec (11.09 episodes per patient-year of exposure) than with insulin glargine (13.63 episodes per patient-year), as were rates of nocturnal and daytime hypoglycemia.
Mean weight gain was the same between the two study groups, as were the rates of adverse events and of serious adverse events other than hypoglycemia.
Both studies were sponsored by Novo Nordisk, manufacturer of degludec. Novo Nordisk designed both studies, supplied products and equipment, and provided data monitoring and management, statistical analysis, and the written report of the trial results. Dr. Heller, Dr. Garber, and their associates reported numerous ties to industry sources. Dr. Tahrani, Dr. Bailey, and Dr. Barnett also reported ties to numerous industry sources, including Novo Nordisk.