Medtronic anticipates the separation of its diabetes business unit into a wholly separate entity to complete within 18 months.

Global medical device company Medtronic announced Wednesday that it intends to separate its diabetes business into a standalone company. The new diabetes company will focus on accelerating innovation and addressing intensive insulin management, according to a news release from Fridley-based Medtronic.

While some analysts questioned why Medtronic would leave a fast-growing market, others backed the company’s plan to focus on segments with higher margins.