Two ‘smart connected’ insulin pens are now available on prescription in the UK, manufacturer Novo Nordisk has said.

NovoPen 6 and NovoPen Echo Plus record dosing information such as when and how much insulin is administered, and allows patients to upload the data to an app that can be viewed by patients and healthcare professionals.

The manufacturer said this may help keep more accurate data, as manual recording of doses may lead to inaccuracies and potentially pose “a significant barrier to optimising glycaemic control”. It also said this could help “facilitate more productive consultations and support personalised treatment guidance”.

An observational study has found that using the NovoPen 6 may help give people with type 1 diabetes almost two extra hours of improved glucose levels, with a reduction in time spent in hyperglycaemia.

Consultant diabetologist Emma Wilmot said: “Integrating innovative technology as a routine part of diabetes care is an important step to improve diabetes care.

“In my clinic, the opportunity to view daily insulin data will allow me to better support the individual with diabetes to achieve their goals. It will allow for more tailored and informed advice on optimisation of glucose levels, with the ultimate goal of improving future outcomes.”