Imagine a world where managing diabetes no longer means daily injections but something far simpler.
For many Australians living with diabetes, that possibility is closer than ever.
A homegrown innovation backed by big support
Thanks to a groundbreaking new insulin pill developed right here on home soil, change may be on the horizon.
The team behind this development is Endo Axiom, an Australian start-up that recently received a million-dollar government grant to help bring their discovery from the laboratory to the clinic.
According to Endo Axiom’s chief executive officer, Dr Nicholas Hunt, ‘We get to find out now if it really does work in type 1 diabetes and we couldn’t be more excited to have that happen.’
They are one of 14 local start-ups to share in a $12 million funding boost aimed at supporting the next generation of medical devices and drugs.
Federal Health Minister Mark Butler summed up the significance of this investment: ‘We have a great history in Australia of medical research but too often our discoveries are sent overseas.’
This time, the hope is that Australian ingenuity will benefit Australians first.
How does the insulin pill work?
The secret to this new pill lies in nanotechnology. Unlike traditional insulin, which is broken down in the stomach and cannot be absorbed effectively when swallowed, this pill is designed with three protective layers.
These layers help the insulin survive the harsh environment of the digestive system and ensure it is absorbed where it is needed.But there is more: this is not just any insulin pill.
‘For us, the unique aspect of this technology is that it’s both a pill and a smart insulin. No-one has taken it to clinical trials with that combination before,’ Dr Hunt said.
So, what exactly is ‘smart insulin’? In simple terms, it is insulin that can sense your blood sugar levels and respond accordingly—releasing more when your glucose is high, and less when it is low.
This could help reduce the risk of dangerous lows (hypoglycaemia) and make diabetes management much simpler and safer.
A personal mission
For researcher Sophie Kang, who is part of the Endo Axiom team, this project is deeply personal.
Living with type 1 diabetes herself, she knows firsthand the challenges and stigma that can come with daily injections.
‘It will make things more simplified [and] can also remove the stigma people have,’ she says.
What happens next?
With animal studies showing the pill is both safe and effective, the next step is to see how it works in people.
Human trials are expected to begin in the new year, and the diabetes community is watching with anticipation.
If successful, this pill could revolutionise diabetes care—not just in Australia, but around the world.
It could mean fewer injections, less pain and a more discreet way to manage the condition.
For older Australians, who may find injections particularly challenging, this could be a real game-changer.
What does this mean for you?
If you or someone you love is living with diabetes, this news is sure to spark hope.
While it will still be some time before the pill is widely available, the fact that human trials are about to begin is a huge step forward.
Of course, as with any new treatment, there will be questions about cost, access and long-term safety.
But for now, the focus is on the potential to make life with diabetes a little bit easier—and a lot less painful.
What do you think about this innovation?
Do you or someone you care for live with diabetes? Would an insulin pill make a difference in how you manage daily routines and treatment?
We’d love to hear your thoughts or experiences in the comments below. Your insight may offer support or clarity to others navigating a similar path.
Also read: World-first type 1 diabetes drug trial aims to reprogram immune system
