New Dual-Target Weight Loss Medication Shows Promise Despite Gastrointestinal Side Effects

Recent clinical trials have explored a novel weight management drug named amycretin, which acts on both GLP-1 and amylin receptors to regulate blood sugar and appetite. The studies indicate that the drug can significantly reduce body weight, with one trial showing up to 24.3% loss after 36 weeks of weekly injections, and another demonstrating a 13.1% reduction through 12 weeks of oral intake. These promising results suggest amycretin could become an effective treatment for overweight individuals and those with type 2 diabetes.

However, the trials also revealed a notable occurrence of gastrointestinal side effects, such as nausea and vomiting, particularly with higher doses. Despite these adverse effects being mostly mild to moderate and transient, they highlight the need for further research to improve tolerability.

The first phase 1b/2a trial involved 125 adults receiving once-weekly injections, with the highest dose group experiencing the greatest weight reductions. Improvements in blood sugar control were also observed, although larger studies are necessary to confirm these benefits.

Another trial tested oral amycretin in 144 participants over 12 weeks. The results showed significant weight loss, especially at the highest dose, indicating that oral administration may offer a convenient alternative. Both studies underscore amycretin’s potential as a dual-action therapy that could address both obesity and diabetes, but further research is essential to validate these early findings.

Experts emphasize that future investigations should also evaluate whether treatments like amycretin can reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases associated with obesity, beyond mere weight loss. Overall, amycretin represents a promising advancement in metabolic health management, pending more extensive clinical validation.