A groundbreaking insulin pill has been developed that experts say could potentially replace traditional injections for people with insulin-dependent diabetes.
The drug was developed by a team at New York University Abu Dhabi who wanted to find a less invasive way to treat diabetes.
It was a challenging process as insulin is a fragile material and they had to find a way how it could safely travel through the stomach and eventually reach the bloodstream where it is needed.
The solution was to create a framework of tiny organic particles that would withstand the body’s efforts to digest the pills.
Once the capsules reach the blood, the particles can automatically monitor a person’s insulin levels and only release the drug when it’s needed.
The study’s lead author, Dr. Farah Benyettou said: “Our work uses insulin-laden nanoparticles that have insulin protection in the stomach and a release that is responsive to glucose.
“This technology responds quickly to increases in blood sugar. But it would shut down immediately to prevent insulin overdose and dramatically improve diabetic wellbeing. “
Insulin therapy is an essential part of controlling and regulating blood sugar levels. However, research has shown that some people are afraid of needles and therefore try to avoid injecting insulin.
While insulin pens alleviate some of these concerns, dosing errors can still be made that can lead to complications.
The study was published in the latest issue of the Royal Society of Chemistry’s Chemical Science journal.
