Novo Nordisk’s CagriSema: The Next Big Breakthrough in Weight Loss Medication
Novo Nordisk Develops CagriSema
Novo Nordisk is developing a new weight-loss drug called CagriSema. This follows their successful launch of Ozempic in 2017, a diabetes treatment that gained popularity for its weight-loss effects.
CagriSema is currently in late-stage clinical trials aimed at treating obesity and type 2 diabetes. Unlike Ozempic, which contains semaglutide, CagriSema combines semaglutide with cagrilintide, a dual amylin and calcitonin receptor agonist.
How CagriSema Works
CagriSema mimics several hormones:
- GLP-1: Regulates blood sugar, promotes insulin production, and controls appetite.
- Amylin: Works with insulin to manage blood glucose and promotes feelings of fullness.
- Calcitonin: Regulates calcium levels in the blood.
Expected Weight Loss Efficiency
In initial trials, CagriSema helped participants lose an average of 15.6% of their weight over 32 weeks. In comparison, Wegovy, another drug by Novo Nordisk, led to a 15% weight loss over 68 weeks. Novo Nordisk believes larger trials may show that CagriSema could help users lose up to 25% of their weight.
Timeline for Availability
Novo Nordisk will share results from two phase 3 trials later this year and early 2025. Depending on these results, the company could file for regulatory approval with organizations like the FDA or EMA. The approval process can take around a year. If all goes well, CagriSema may be available in the U.S. and Europe by late 2025 or early 2026.
Novo Nordisk is currently expanding its manufacturing capabilities to ensure a steady supply of CagriSema. The company and its competitor, Eli Lilly, are struggling to meet demand for their existing weight-loss drugs and have invested significantly to boost production.