Experimental drug helps people lose nearly 25% of body weight

An experimental weight-loss medication developed by Novo Nordisk, called amycretin, has shown promising results in early-stage 1a/2b trials. This medication aims to replicate the effects of two hunger hormones — amylin and glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) — to help individuals lose weight.

In a study involving 125 overweight or obese adults, participants who received weekly injections of amycretin experienced significant weight loss compared to those who took a placebo. The group receiving the highest doses of amycretin lost up to 24.3% of their body weight after 36 weeks, while the placebo group only lost 1.1%.

Additionally, a phase 1 trial of the oral version of amycretin demonstrated that the medication was safe and well-tolerated, with participants experiencing a reduction in body weight. Those who took the pill once a day saw a 10% weight loss, with a 13% weight loss for those who doubled the dose.

One of the key benefits of amycretin is that individuals did not hit a weight-loss plateau while taking the medication. This suggests that continuous weight loss can be achieved with extended treatment.

The most common side effects of amycretin were gastrointestinal symptoms, such as nausea, vomiting, and decreased appetite. Adverse events were generally mild to moderate in severity, with more frequent doses leading to greater side effects.

While the initial results of amycretin are promising, further studies are needed to evaluate the long-term efficacy and safety of the medication. It is essential to closely monitor side effects, especially gastrointestinal issues, which are common among individuals with obesity.

Dr. Christine Ren-Fielding, director and chief of bariatric surgery at the NYU Langone Weight Management Program, emphasizes that obesity is a chronic condition that requires a comprehensive approach. While pharmacological treatments like amycretin can be beneficial, they are most effective when combined with other interventions.

Novo Nordisk plans to advance amycretin into phase 3 trials for the management of obesity, in both oral and injectable forms. These trials will further evaluate the efficacy and safety of the medication in helping individuals achieve significant weight loss.

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Melissa Rudy is a senior health editor and a member of the lifestyle team at Fox News Digital. Story tips can be sent to melissa.rudy@fox.com.