basal insulin + GLP-1 receptor agonist

A combination therapy consisting of a long-acting (basal) insulin and a glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist. This regimen is used primarily for the management of type 2 diabetes mellitus. Basal insulins provide sustained glucose-lowering by stimulating peripheral glucose uptake and inhibiting hepatic glucose production, while GLP-1 receptor agonists enhance glucose-dependent insulin secretion, suppress inappropriate glucagon release, slow gastric emptying, and reduce appetite. The combination offers synergistic effects on glycemic control with reduced risk of hypoglycemia compared to intensified insulin regimens alone. It also mitigates weight gain typically associated with basal insulin therapy; in many cases it can promote weight loss due to the anorectic effects of the GLP-1 component[4][5][2]. Fixed-ratio combinations are available as single daily injections (e.g., Xultophy combines insulin degludec with liraglutide; Soliqua combines insulin glargine with lixisenatide), improving adherence by reducing injection burden[4][5]. Newer formulations such as IcoSema (insulin icodec + semaglutide) are in development[4].

Brand names

XultophySoliquaIcoSema

Other names

basal insulin and GLP-1 receptor agonist combinationfixed-ratio combination of basal insulin and GLP-1 RA