Vancouver, BC — A groundbreaking development by researchers at the University of British Columbia (UBC) may revolutionize diabetes care with a needle-free insulin delivery method. Dr. Shyh-Dar Li and his team have created oral insulin drops designed to be placed under the tongue, providing a painless alternative to traditional insulin injections.
More than 11 million Canadians currently live with diabetes or prediabetes, many of whom require daily insulin injections. The innovative oral drops, developed over three years, combine insulin with a unique cell-penetrating peptide. This peptide ensures that the insulin effectively reaches the bloodstream, bypassing the common issue of insulin remaining stuck in the mouth’s lining.
Dr. Li described the discovery of this peptide as “a game changer,” noting that the usual dosage for most patients would be one or two drops, with adjustments based on individual blood glucose levels.
The team’s pre-clinical trials indicate that the drops work as rapidly as conventional insulin injections. “It works instantly,” Li confirmed, emphasizing their efforts to produce clinical-grade doses. Human trials are expected within two years, and the product could be available within five years, pending successful testing.
The development has sparked excitement among the diabetic community, who have expressed their enthusiasm and gratitude for the prospect of a needle-free insulin option.