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New Oral GLP-1 From Pfizer May Be on the Way

Published: 7/10/23 1:15 pm
By Arvind Sommi

Person taking medicationPfizer has provided an update on its oral GLP-1 medication danuglipron. If approved, danuglipron could be an additional option for people living with type 2 diabetes and obesity.

Pfizer is moving forward with the clinical development of a new oral GLP-1 medicine called danuglipron for obesity and type 2 diabetes. Pfizer plans to further evaluate the safety and efficacy of the drug in clinical trials. If successful, danuglipron could be another option for people living with obesity and type 2 diabetes.

Data on danuglipron shows promise 

Preliminary results from a phase 2 study of danuglipron have shown promising outcomes on both A1C and weight loss. 

Participants taking danuglipron experienced dose-dependent reductions in A1C (up to 1.16%), fasting plasma glucose levels (up to 33.24 mg/dL), and body weight (9 pounds) over a 16-week period. These positive effects, combined with mild side effects comparable to other GLP-1 medications, suggest that danuglipron could be an effective treatment option. 

Significance for people with diabetes

Currently, the only oral GLP-1 medication is Rybelsus (semaglutide), and it has not been approved for weight loss. Pfizer's drug in development might appeal to people who seek a weight loss drug but wish to avoid injections. 

Additionally, the dose-dependent reductions in A1C, glucose levels, and body weight during the phase 2 study suggested both improved diabetes control and potential weight loss.

Other companies like Novo Nordisk have also shared encouraging results from clinical trials for once-daily oral semaglutide shown to be effective for weight management in people with obesity.

To learn more about GLP-1 medications and weight loss, read our other articles:

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About the authors

Arvind Sommi joined the diaTribe Foundation in 2021 after graduating with Phi Beta Kappa and honors from the University of Florida where he majored in Biology and minored in Sociology.... Read the full bio »