China’s BrightGene has released early-stage data on its dual GLP-1/GIP agonist, BGM0504, which is being tested as an oral treatment for obesity. Two placebo-controlled phase 1 studies conducted in China and the U.S. involved a total of 155 participants, revealing weight loss results of up to 8.2% after five to eight weeks of treatment. These findings come amidst a surge of interest in oral GLP-1 therapies, particularly following Novo Nordisk’s successful launch of oral Wegovy earlier this year.

The implications of BrightGene’s preliminary data are significant for the longevity and healthspan field, as effective obesity treatments are crucial for mitigating age-related diseases. While the gastrointestinal side effects associated with GLP-1 drugs remain a concern, BrightGene reported that adverse events were mostly mild and transient. The company is also advancing a subcutaneous version of BGM0504, which has shown promising results in earlier trials.

As the landscape of obesity therapeutics evolves, BrightGene’s progress with BGM0504 highlights the potential for oral formulations to enhance patient compliance and expand treatment options in the fight against obesity and its related health impacts.

Source: fiercebiotech.com