In the 1980s, researchers found a hormone in the human gut called GLP-1 that helps release insulin, controlling blood sugar levels. This discovery led to the development of GLP-1 receptor agonists, a new class of diabetes drugs. The first GLP-1 drug for weight loss was approved in 2014, known as liraglutide or Saxenda, which led to a 3% reduction in body weight on average.
Novo Nordisk, the maker of Saxenda, developed a more effective GLP-1 drug called semaglutide, approved for diabetes in 2017 and for weight loss in 2021. Participants in trials of Wegovy, the weight loss version of semaglutide, lost around 15% of their initial body weight. Eli Lilly’s tirzepatide, approved for diabetes in 2022 and weight management in 2023, showed even more significant weight loss in studies.
Pharmaceutical companies are now focused on developing more effective and convenient anti-obesity medications with fewer side effects than current options. Some patients experience side effects like nausea and headaches from existing drugs, and the high cost of over $1,000 a month can be a barrier for many.
Researchers are exploring new drug targets beyond GLP-1 to enhance weight loss effects. Viking Pharmaceuticals is developing a drug that activates both GLP-1 and GIP receptors, showing promising weight loss results. Novo Nordisk, Eli Lilly, and Pfizer are working on GLP-1 pills as an alternative to weekly injections, potentially reducing costs and increasing accessibility.
Amgen is developing an injectable drug called MariTide that targets GLP-1 and GIP receptors, promoting weight loss by blocking GIP receptors. Early-stage trials have shown significant weight loss results with MariTide. Eli Lilly’s investigational drug retatrutide targets GLP-1, GIP, and glucagon receptors, leading to substantial weight loss in trials.
Zealand Pharma is developing petrelintide, an injectable drug that mimics the hormone amylin to reduce food intake and promote weight loss. Positive trial results have shown promising weight loss effects. With the success of GLP-1 drugs, the field of obesity treatment is evolving rapidly, with new drugs and mechanisms being explored for more effective weight loss solutions.
The shortage of current medications like Wegovy and Zepbound has highlighted the need for more options in the market. New entrants in the field can increase the supply of effective weight loss medications and provide patients with more choices. Researchers believe that ongoing advancements in drug development will lead to even more exciting and effective treatments for obesity in the future.
