A clinical trial compares two treatment options for people struggling with obesity and finds a clear winner.
Glucagon-like-peptide 1 (GLP-1) analogs are used to treat type 2 diabetes and obesity. They work by mimicking the effects of a hormone called GLP-1, which regulates blood sugar levels and reduces appetite. GLP-1 analogs can promote weight loss, and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease in type 2 diabetic and obese individuals. While they can have some side effects, they are generally considered safe and effective for many patients.
A recent clinical trial compared the efficacy and safety of semaglutide (once weekly) and liraglutide (once daily), for weight loss in addition to diet and physical activity. In nondiabetic individuals, semaglutide treatment resulted in significantly greater weight loss compared to liraglutide after 68 weeks. People who took semaglutide lost more weight than people who took liraglutide. Gastrointestinal adverse event profiles were similar in both groups.
In addition to its beneficial effects on body weight, semaglutide significantly improved the cardiometabolic risk factor profile in individuals. Semaglutide reduced food cravings, and was well-tolerated, with a lower rate of treatment discontinuation than liraglutide. Reduction in calorie intake was larger with semaglutide than with liraglutide treatment.