Moving from daily injections to a weekly jab is most likely to benefit those who need help with their injections.
That might include frailer people and those with sight loss, limited hand movement and learning disabilities.
People who have difficulty following the steps involved in a daily injection or those who struggle to stick to their treatment regime are also likely to be helped by the new drug.
Douglas Twenefour, head of clinical at Diabetes UK, said: “For some, especially those with additional care needs, moving from daily insulin injections to a once-weekly option could help manage their diabetes more easily, improving their quality of life.
“It’s essential that everyone who could benefit is supported by their healthcare team to make informed decisions, and that this treatment helps reduce inequities in diabetes care.”
Helen Knight, director of medicines evaluation at Nice, said the new treatment could make a “real difference to the day-to-day lives of people with type 2 diabetes, especially those who rely on a carer, family member or healthcare professional to help them inject”.
She added: “This recommendation is the result of rigorous, evidence-based decision making, striking a balance between the benefits to patients and the best use of limited NHS funding.”