New Diabetes Treatment Alternative Introduced by MédiS Laboratories in Tunisia

MédiS, a major player in the Tunisian pharmaceutical industry, announces the launch of the first biosimilar of Glargine insulin for diabetes treatment on February 18, 2022, following approval from the Ministry of Health.

This biosimilar marks a significant milestone as the first of its kind in Tunisia, Africa, and the Arab world to comply with existing legislation and adhere to international manufacturing standards at every stage of protocols and procedures.

Prescribed exclusively by physicians and locally manufactured, this new therapy offers a fresh outlook for diabetes patients, not only due to its immediate availability but also because of its competitive pricing.

The product launch will alleviate the strain on insulin imports and intermittent shortages experienced in the previous period. Additionally, it will save significant foreign currency reserves for the Treasury.

The development of this new insulin required 8 years of expertise and dedication. In addition to enhancing national drug security and self-sufficiency, it brings numerous economic benefits.

It should be emphasized that this is not a generic drug, but a biosimilar drug developed on the basis of a new technology in line with the drug registration guidelines formulated by the Tunisian authorities. It is capable of replacing imported insulin, which previously required daily injections, and comes in the form of a 3 ml vial in the first phase, giving patients around 10 days' treatment (depending on the dose set by the treating physician).

In terms of social security, CNAM will also cover the full cost, and as of February 21, 2022, CNAM has given prior approval (AP1) to this class of drugs.

The treatment comes at a time when diabetes, an autoimmune disease, is experiencing a worrying increase in Tunisia, and is now also appearing in an increasingly young population. Current data indicate a 21% prevalence of two types of diabetes.