Oral Semaglutide 25 mg Shows Promise for Weight Loss in Overweight and Obese Adults, Trial Finds

A recent clinical trial conducted by Novo Nordisk indicates that an oral formulation of semaglutide at a dose of 25 mg once daily effectively promotes weight loss in adults struggling with overweight or obesity. The study, published in the New England Journal of Medicine, involved 307 participants across four countries and demonstrated significant improvements in body weight and cardiometabolic health.

The trial lasted 71 weeks and was double-blind, placebo-controlled. Participants, all without diabetes but with a BMI of 27 or higher with obesity-related complications, received either the oral semaglutide or a placebo. In addition to the medication, participants adhered to lifestyle counseling aimed at creating a daily calorie deficit of 500 calories and engaging in at least 150 minutes of physical activity weekly.

Results showed that those taking semaglutide experienced an average weight reduction of 13.6%, compared to just 2.2% with placebo. A notable 79.2% of semaglutide users achieved at least 5% weight loss, and 50% lost 15% or more. Quality of life related to physical function also improved significantly in the treatment group.

The medication also led to favorable changes in several cardiometabolic risk factors, including reductions in waist circumference, blood glucose, insulin levels, triglycerides, and inflammatory markers. Among participants with prediabetes, over 70% reached normal blood sugar levels during the study.

However, the therapy had some side effects, primarily gastrointestinal issues like nausea (46.6%) and vomiting (30.9%). Discontinuation due to adverse effects was relatively low at 6.9%, and serious adverse events were rare (3.9%). Common side effects led to higher rates of withdrawal compared to placebo.

Currently approved as a subcutaneous injection for weight management, semaglutide's oral form offers a promising non-injectable alternative, potentially increasing its accessibility and ease of use. Nonetheless, further research is essential to assess long-term safety, effects on lean mass, and potential weight regain after stopping treatment.

This study's findings mark a significant step toward expanding pharmacological options for weight management, offering hope for effective, less invasive treatments for obesity. Future formulations might make weight loss medication more user-friendly, encouraging broader adoption and better health outcomes. Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-09-pill-semaglutide-suitable-option-adults.html