Novo Nordisk and Abbott announce digital diabetes tie-up

Novo Nordisk and devices firm Abbott have announced a partnership that aims to make diabetes management easier by linking technologies such as continuous glucose monitoring with connected insulin pens.

The non-exclusive deal will integrate dose data from Novo’s pre-filled connected pens directly into digital health tools compatible with Abbott’s FreeStyle Libre system – including a mobile app and cloud-based system.

The companies said that by integrating the products, healthcare professionals, caregivers and people with diabetes will be able to view glucose and insulin data together.

This will help them with their treatment decisions, and have a more “meaningful and productive conversation” about health outcomes.

Anders Dyhr Toft, corporate vice president, commercial innovation at Novo Nordisk, said: “Lack of reliable information is a cause of huge frustration for many people with diabetes and their doctors.

“Together with partners like Abbott, our connected pens will give healthcare professionals a better understanding of a patient’s individual diabetes management and can help people with diabetes feel more confident about their treatment.”

Abbott's FreeStyle Libre system reads glucose levels through a sensor that can be worn on the back of the upper arm eliminating the need for routine finger pricks.

Abbott's FreeStyle LibreLink app enables users to capture and view their real-time glucose levels, their eight-hour glucose history, and how their glucose is currently changing on their smartphone.

The technology links with LibreView, a secure cloud-based diabetes management system that gives people with diabetes and healthcare professionals clear, easy-to-understand reports from major glucose monitoring devices including FreeStyle Libre.

The companies said they are “working hard” to bring the integrated products to patients as soon as possible.

Diabetes companies are increasingly turning to digital technology to increase their competitiveness in a tough market and give themselves an edge over rivals.

For instance AstraZeneca has introduced a programme including digital coaches to help patients with diabetes choose healthy food options.