Algerian Insulin Factory Produces 20 Million Units of Oral Antidiabetic Annually

Novo Nordisk Algeria's factory in Tizi-Ouzou produces 20 million units of oral antidiabetic medication (ADO) annually in dry form. The factory, operational for 20 years, employs 234 people out of a total of over 600 employees nationwide. According to Karim Djerroud, Public Affairs and Market Access Director at Novo Nordisk, the company has been a pioneer in diabetes care for nearly 30 years.

The Tizi-Ouzou factory, along with another site in Boufarik, Blida, dedicated to producing insulin in pre-filled injectable pens, makes Algeria the only country with such a robust industrial setup. Djerroud expressed pride in the company's initiatives, including therapeutic education programs for patients and partnerships with health authorities. These efforts aim to improve diabetes care and management in Algeria.

One notable initiative is the "Clinique mobile" established in Algiers 10 years ago, which screens for pre-diabetes and undiagnosed diabetes. Additionally, Novo Nordisk has developed tools to generate Algerian data on diabetes, rather than relying on foreign statistics. This data-driven approach enables informed healthcare policy decisions tailored to Algeria's needs.

The company's efforts focus on providing innovative treatments and support to Algerian patients. Djerroud emphasized the importance of making therapeutic innovations available to patients and accompanying them throughout their care journey. This comprehensive approach aims to address the growing diabetes epidemic in Algeria.

The diabetes situation in Algeria is alarming, with the number of patients doubling over two decades, contrary to predictions for 2040. Professor Aissa Boudiba, former head of the Diabetology department at Mustapha Bacha Hospital, stressed the importance of adhering to healthy lifestyle rules to prevent diabetes. He expressed concern about the proliferation of fast-food establishments and advocated for stricter legislation to control them.

As part of the insulin centennial celebrations, Novo Nordisk organized a two-day program featuring thematic conferences led by specialists like Professor Boudiba. The events highlighted the need for sustained efforts to combat diabetes and promote healthy lifestyles. The company continues to play a significant role in Algeria's healthcare landscape.

Novo Nordisk's commitment to diabetes care in Algeria extends beyond treatment to education and prevention. The company's initiatives have contributed significantly to improving the lives of Algerian patients. As the diabetes epidemic continues to grow, such efforts are crucial in mitigating its impact on public health.

Key points

• Algeria's only insulin-producing factory, located in Tizi-Ouzou, produces 20 million units of oral antidiabetic medication annually.