OBJECTIVE To investigate the pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties, and safety of a novel formulation of insulin aspart (AT247) versus two currently marketed insulin aspart formulations (NovoRapid [IAsp] and Fiasp [faster IAsp]).

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS This single-center, randomized, double-blind, three-period, crossover study was conducted in 19 men with type 1 diabetes, receiving single dosing of trial products (0.3 units/kg) in a random order on three visits. Pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics were assessed during a euglycemic clamp lasting up to 8 h.

RESULTS Onset of insulin appearance was earlier for AT247 compared with IAsp (−12 min [95% CI −14; −8], P = 0.0004) and faster IAsp (−2 min [−5; −2], P = 0.0003). Onset of action was accelerated compared with IAsp (−23 min [−37; −15], P = 0.0004) and faster IAsp (−9 min [−11; −3], P = 0.0006). Within the first 60 min, a higher exposure was observed for AT247 compared with IAsp by the area under the curve (AUC) glucose infusion rate (GIR) from 0 to 60 min (AUC_Asp0–60min: treatment ratio vs. IAsp 2.3 [1.9; 2.9] vs. faster IAsp 1.5 [1.3; 1.8]), which was underpinned by a greater early glucose-lowering effect (AUC_{GIR,0–60min}: treatment ratio vs. IAsp 2.8 [2.0; 5.5] vs. faster IAsp 1.7 [1.3; 2.3]). Furthermore, an earlier offset of exposure was observed for AT247 compared with IAsp (−32 min [−58; −15], P = 0.0015) and faster IAsp (−27 min [−85; −15], P = 0.0017), while duration of the glucose-lowering effect, measured by time to late half-maximum effect, did not differ significantly.

CONCLUSIONS AT247 exhibited an earlier insulin appearance, exposure, and offset, with corresponding enhanced early glucose-lowering effect compared with IAsp and faster IAsp. It therefore represents a promising candidate in the pursuit for second generation prandial insulin analogs to improve postprandial glycemic control.