Wal-Mart adds to ReliOn brand

Chain Drug Review, June 7, 2004

BENTONVILLE, Ark. -- Wal-Mart Stores Inc. and Novo Nordisk Pharmaceuticals Inc. have rolled out ReliOn/Novolin InnoLet human insulin (rDNA origin), a prefilled insulin doser to the retailer's ReliOn brand of diabetes health care products.

The insulin doser is designed as an alternative to the vial and syringe method of insulin delivery used by many people with diabetes.

Wal-Mart says InnoLet delivers accurate and convenient dosing at a price comparable to branded vial insulin, providing a unique choice for patients.

The product features an easy-to-read "kitchen timer" design to help set the correct dose.

According to Wal-Mart, a study of nearly 90 patients demonstrated nine out of 10 prefer InnoLet to a comparable insulin pen device or vial and syringe. Another study of nearly 80 patients showed that eight out of 10 prefer InnoLet.

The launch builds on the success of ReliOn/Novolin vial insulin, which debuted four years ago. It is now available in all Wal-Mart and Sam's Club pharmacies nationwide.

"Wal-Mart recognizes the financial burden that may sometimes impact patient compliance to a prescribed therapy," remarks vice president of pharmacy Frank Segrave.

"By expanding on the ReliOn portfolio to include ReliOn/Novolin InnoLet we are capitalizing on the success of our vial insulin partnership and delivering next-generation technology at an affordable price."

Each InnoLet contains 300 units of insulin with a maximum of 50 units per injection. The device is made of plastic that can be sent to landfills or incinerated safely.

"We believe the addition of InnoLet to the ReliOn line will help the millions of Americans who are managing their diabetes to have greater access to a very affordable device that helps make insulin administration accurate, easy and convenient and that may lead to increased safety and treatment compliance," says Novo Nordisk president Martin Soeters.