Australia is set to trial a revolutionary new insulin pill designed for individuals living with diabetes in just a few months. This promising alternative to traditional insulin injections has received substantial support, including a million-dollar government grant aimed at facilitating its transition from laboratory to clinical use.
Dr Nicholas Hunt, CEO of Endo Axiom, expressed excitement about entering the trial phase, particularly regarding its effectiveness for those with type 1 diabetes. The pill’s development leverages advancements in nanotechnology, which have shown safety and efficacy in animal models. It features a unique three-layer design intended to enhance insulin absorption.
This innovative pill is not only a standard medication but also incorporates ‘smart insulin’ technology. Such a formulation is unprecedented in clinical trials—the smart insulin can autonomously respond to fluctuations in glucose levels, activating when glucose is elevated and deactivating during low levels, thus providing a tailored therapeutic approach.
Researcher Sophie Kang, who personally has type 1 diabetes, emphasised the pill’s potential to simplify diabetes management and reduce the stigma associated with insulin injections. She believes this could lead to significant improvements in the quality of life for individuals relying on insulin therapies.
Human trials are anticipated to commence in the upcoming new year. Endo Axiom is among 14 Australian start-ups that collectively received $12 million in funding from the government, aimed at advancing the creation of innovative medical devices and pharmaceuticals. Federal Health Minister Mark Butler highlighted Australia’s legacy of medical research, pointing out the importance of retaining discoveries locally rather than allowing them to be exported overseas.
With this upcoming trial, there is renewed hope for those managing diabetes, as this insulin pill could transform treatment options and enhance the daily lives of many.