Dominic Hughes

A weekly insulin injection called Onswik, made by Eli Lilly, could replace daily insulin injections for eligible people with type 2 diabetes, reducing injections by about 86% annually. NICE has initially recommended the treatment, particularly highlighting benefits for frailer people and those with sight loss, limited hand movement, learning disabilities or reliance on carers. NHS access depends on licensing by the MHRA; implementation will vary across the UK, with Wales often following NICE guidance while Scotland and Northern Ireland use separate processes.

NICE has recommended Eli Lilly’s once-weekly insulin treatment Onswik for people with type 2 diabetes, potentially reducing injections from daily to weekly and benefiting patients who need help with administration. The treatment could particularly assist frail people and those with sight loss, limited hand movement, learning disabilities or difficulty following daily treatment routines. It is not yet available on the NHS because it still requires licensing from the MHRA. NICE says the recommendation balances patient benefits with limited NHS funding, while Diabetes UK stresses the need for individualized clinical support and action to reduce inequalities in diabetes care.

Eye experts warn that looking directly at an eclipse without specially designed solar-eclipse glasses can cause solar retinopathy, damaging the retina and central vision. Symptoms may emerge hours later and include blurred or distorted vision, a central dark or coloured spot, eye irritation, redness and increased sensitivity to light. Anyone concerned should seek urgent medical attention from an optician, eye unit or hospital. Experts report fewer people seeking care than after the 1999 UK eclipse, although the full extent of damage from the latest eclipse is not yet known.

Jet lag occurs when rapid travel across time zones leaves the body’s circadian clock misaligned with local time, causing sleep disruption, daytime fatigue, poor concentration, irritability and digestive problems. Eastward travel is often more difficult because the human body generally finds it easier to delay than advance its internal clock. Exposure to natural light at the right time, daytime exercise, eating during daylight hours and maintaining good sleep hygiene can help the body adjust. Melatonin should only be used under appropriate professional guidance, particularly because supplement doses can vary.