A clinical trial in Italy focused on the efficacy of oral semaglutide in treating diabetes, cardiovascular health, and weight loss. While semaglutide and other GLP-1 agonist drugs are most commonly administered through injections, oral versions have shown promise, particularly in people in the early stages of diabetes. However, despite larger doses of oral semaglutide being used, there is a concern about reduced effectiveness due to less of the drug entering the bloodstream compared to injectables.
Semaglutide, the active ingredient in popular diabetes and weight-loss medications such as Wegovy and Ozempic, is primarily available in injectable form, with Rybelsus being the only oral version currently on the market. The Italian study found that individuals with recently diagnosed diabetes experienced significant improvements in blood sugar levels and weight after taking oral semaglutide. This suggests that oral semaglutide may be most beneficial for those in the early stages of diabetes.
Semaglutide, a GLP-1 agonist, works by mimicking the hormone glucagon-like peptide-1, stimulating insulin release from the pancreas and slowing stomach emptying to promote a feeling of fullness. The drug has been found to aid in weight loss, which is important for reducing the risk of diabetes and cardiovascular disease. The Italian study showed improvements in glycemic control, body weight, lipid profiles, kidney function, and blood pressure in patients taking oral semaglutide.
While only Wegovy is officially approved by the FDA for weight loss, other semaglutide drugs like Ozempic are often used off-label for this purpose. Studies on the efficacy of oral semaglutide have produced mixed results, though one study funded by Novo Nordisk found that high doses of oral semaglutide reduced cardiovascular risk by 21%. Further research is needed to determine the full benefits of oral semaglutide as an add-on to injectable forms for diabetes and weight loss management.
Experts in the field emphasize the importance of offering both oral and injectable options for semaglutide to accommodate patient preferences. Oral semaglutide may be particularly advantageous for patients concerned about shortages of the injectable form. The study participants in the Italian trial were able to tolerate high doses of oral semaglutide, suggesting that future formulations may be more accessible and provide doctors with more treatment options for their patients.
Overall, while injectable semaglutide remains more effective than the oral version, the availability of both options can be beneficial for patients with diabetes, cardiovascular issues, and weight concerns. More research is needed to fully understand the benefits of oral semaglutide and determine its role in the management of various health conditions. Flexibility in treatment options can help healthcare providers tailor therapies to individual patient needs and preferences, ultimately leading to better outcomes and improved quality of life.
