Can a fixed-ratio combination of insulin degludec and liraglutide help Type 2 diabetes patients to optimize glycemic control across the day?

'IDegLira' combines insulin degludec (IDeg) with the glucagon-like peptide-1 analog liraglutide (Lira) at a ratio of 1 unit IDeg to 0.036 mg Lira. The two components have complementary therapeutic actions for the treatment of Type 2 diabetes. Studies have shown that combinations of basal insulin with glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists can be clinically successful, lowering elevated blood glucose with a low risk of hypoglycemia and weight gain. IDegLira is being assessed in a series of studies (two already published), which provide insights into its clinical utility in previously insulin-naive patients and those failing to achieve good glycemic control on a basal-only insulin regimen. This article critically examines the available data to assess the product's likely clinical profile.