Zealand Pharma’s GLP-1/GLP-2 Receptor Dual Agonist Shows Promising Weight Loss in Phase 1b Trial

Positive Phase 1b Results:
Zealand Pharma announced positive topline results from a 13-week Phase 1b multiple ascending dose clinical trial with dapiglutide, a GLP-1/GLP-2 receptor dual agonist, showing substantial and clinically relevant body weight reduction.

Weight Loss Data:
Participants receiving dapiglutide experienced a mean body weight reduction of up to 8.3% compared to a mean weight gain of 2.1% for those on placebo by week 13, without any lifestyle changes such as dietary adjustments or exercise.

Safety Profile:
The safety profile of dapiglutide was deemed favorable with no treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs) reported in Part 1 of the trial, aside from one serious adverse event.

Future Plans:
Zealand Pharma plans to advance dapiglutide into a Phase 2b trial targeting individuals with overweight and obesity, set to commence in the first half of 2025. The company is also assessing the feasibility of administering higher doses of dapiglutide over an extended 28-week treatment period.

Mechanism of Action:
Dapiglutide is designed to leverage the weight loss effects of a potent GLP-1 agonist and address comorbidities associated with low-grade inflammation through improved intestinal barrier function by GLP-2.

Obesity and Low-Grade Inflammation:
Obesity-related low-grade inflammation can result in comorbidities such as cardiovascular disease, liver disease, and neuroinflammation, making dapiglutide a potential treatment for these conditions.