CagriSema achieves 15.7% weight loss in second trial

Novo Nordisk's new medication, CagriSema, has shown promising results in promoting significant weight loss among patients suffering from both obesity and type 2 diabetes. According to recent data released by the company, patients who were administered the drug for over a year experienced an average weight reduction of 15.7%. Despite these positive outcomes, Novo Nordisk's share price took a hit, dropping by 5% during early trading on the Danish stock exchange.

The weight loss effectiveness of CagriSema was assessed using two types of analyses in the pivotal REDEFINE 2 study. The first was a per-protocol analysis, which showed a placebo-adjusted weight loss benefit of 12.6%. This type of analysis, however, only includes data from patients who followed the study's protocol precisely. The more widely accepted method for evaluating controlled trials is the intent-to-treat analysis, which factors in all participants, including those who may not have adhered to the treatment regimen or those with missing data, considering them as treatment failures. Under this more stringent analysis, CagriSema yielded a placebo-adjusted weight loss of 10.3%.

The results of the study showed that the weight loss achieved by patients taking CagriSema was both statistically significant and superior compared to the placebo group. Notably, nearly 90% of participants on CagriSema lost at least 5% of their initial body weight, whereas only 30.3% of those receiving the placebo achieved similar results. Although this was one of the study's co-primary endpoints, Novo Nordisk did not make any claims regarding the statistical significance of this measure.

Compared to CagriSema's performance in other pivotal studies involving non-diabetic obese patients, the observed weight loss in this study was somewhat lower. This outcome was anticipated, as individuals with diabetes typically face more challenges in achieving weight loss. A similar trend was observed with other weight loss medications, such as Wegovy and Eli Lilly's competing product, Zepbound.

CagriSema is administered as a once-weekly injection and combines two active ingredients: cagrilintide, an amylin analog, and semaglutide, a GLP-1 agonist. This combination is designed to enhance the weight loss effects by leveraging the complementary actions of both components. Cagrilintide helps regulate appetite and caloric intake, while semaglutide works by increasing insulin secretion and reducing glucagon levels, thereby improving blood sugar control.

The findings from this study highlight CagriSema's potential as an effective treatment option for individuals struggling with obesity and type 2 diabetes. As Novo Nordisk continues to develop and refine its products, the company remains committed to addressing the growing global challenge of managing diabetes and obesity. Further research and ongoing studies will help determine the long-term benefits and potential applications of CagriSema in various patient populations.