Insulin efsitora alfa is a long-acting basal insulin given once weekly for type 2 diabetes in adults. It helps cells use glucose and reduces glucose production by the liver. It complements diet and exercise; it is not intended for type 1 diabetes or emergency treatment of severe hyperglycaemia.
After training, inject it under the skin on the same day each week. The clinician chooses the dose and manages any switch from another insulin; do not convert a daily dose into a weekly one yourself. Check the pen label and strength, rotate injection sites and never share pens. Do not inject it daily, into a vein or through an insulin pump.
The main risk is low blood glucose, with sweating, shaking, hunger, palpitations or confusion. Weight gain, injection-site reactions, skin thickening and allergic reactions can also occur. Monitor glucose regularly: illness, missed meals, exercise and other medicines can change insulin requirements.
Follow your hypoglycaemia plan and keep fast-acting sugar available. If someone is unconscious or cannot swallow, give nothing by mouth and call emergency services. Contact the diabetes team about a missed dose, an extra injection or repeated low readings; the long action may require prolonged observation. Discuss pregnancy and kidney problems with the clinician.