As Novo Nordisk withdraws its Human Mixtard insulin, India's diabetic population—already the largest in the world—is caught up in anxiety and confusion. Both patients and endocrinologists are flagging warnings about a change from a familiar therapy routine to possibly untested insulin regimens.

Key Highlights:Prescription Change Leading to Anxiety in Diabetics

• Patients who have been used to Human Mixtard are said to be suffering from confusion and anxiety regarding a change to other therapies.

• The Karnataka Institute of Endocrinology reported emotional distress in patients when their established insulin regimens are broken.

India Tops Global Diabetes Burden

• India has overtaken China with an estimated 212 million diabetic patients.

• Human Mixtard, a premixed insulin, has been a mainstay for the treatment of type 2 diabetes, particularly in urban and rural areas.

Experts Deem Discontinuation a Step Back

• Novo Nordisk's penfill form was complimented as accurate, pain-free, and portable—perfect for rural patients and those traveling often.

• Withdrawing it and substituting it with conventional injection vials is seen as cumbersome and backward by some experts.

Industry View of Market Priorities
Group Pharmaceuticals' Sunil Chiplunkar condemned the transition, saying it is a demonstration of profit motive over patient convenience, as the company transitions towards newer high-margin medicines such as Ozempic and Wegovy.

Reliable Alternatives Available Still

• Dr. Mahesh D M of Aster CMI Hospital assured that although the shift is disruptive, alternatives such as Insugen, Xsulin 30/70, Huminsulin 30/70, and Insutrend 30/70 work.

• Premix analogue insulins like Eris-Biocon, Anthem, and Lilly have superior glycaemic control and lesser chance of hypoglycaemia.

Statements by Officials or Leaders
Dr. Mahesh D M, Consultant Endocrinologist, Aster CMI Hospital:
"The move to phase out Human Mixtard is a milestone in India's diabetes treatment. Although it could disturb many stable patients, good alternatives and even better ones exist. With the right medical advice, the shift can be seamless and fruitful."While the discontinuation of Human Mixtard signals a new direction in insulin therapy, it has sparked debate on balancing innovation with patient-centric care. Experts urge stakeholders to ensure that transitions prioritize accessibility, affordability, and continuity in diabetes management—especially in a country bearing the heaviest burden of this chronic condition.