Cagrilintide/semaglutide

Cagrilintide/semaglutide is a combination drug therapy used in the treatment of obesity and type 2 diabetes. It consists of two active ingredients: cagrilintide, a novel acylated amylin analogue, and semaglutide, a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist.

Mechanism of Action

The combination of cagrilintide and semaglutide works synergistically to control blood glucose levels and promote weight loss. Cagrilintide mimics the action of amylin, a hormone that is co-secreted with insulin from the pancreas. It slows gastric emptying, suppresses glucagon secretion, and reduces food intake by increasing satiety. Semaglutide, on the other hand, mimics the action of GLP-1, a hormone that enhances insulin secretion and inhibits glucagon secretion in a glucose-dependent manner. It also slows gastric emptying and reduces appetite.

Clinical Trials

The efficacy and safety of cagrilintide/semaglutide combination therapy have been evaluated in several clinical trials. In a phase 2 trial, the combination therapy was found to be superior to semaglutide alone in reducing body weight and improving glycemic control in overweight or obese patients with type 2 diabetes.

Side Effects

Common side effects of cagrilintide/semaglutide include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. These side effects are usually mild and transient, and can be managed by dose adjustment.

Future Directions

Further research is needed to determine the long-term efficacy and safety of cagrilintide/semaglutide combination therapy. In addition, studies are needed to explore the potential benefits of this combination therapy in other metabolic disorders.

See Also

• Obesity
• Type 2 diabetes
• Amylin
• Insulin
• Glucagon-like peptide-1
• Clinical trials