Daijiworld Media Network – London

London, Sep 15: An international study published Monday in The Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology has found that a weekly 7.2 mg dose of semaglutide is safe and delivers significantly greater weight loss in adults with obesity, including those with type 2 diabetes (T2D), compared to the currently approved 2.4 mg dose.

Researchers from Canada, the US, Denmark, Norway and Portugal reported that adults without diabetes lost an average of nearly 19 per cent of body weight with 7.2 mg, versus 16 per cent with 2.4 mg and 4 per cent with placebo. Almost half of participants shed 20 per cent or more, while one-third lost at least 25 per cent.

In adults with obesity and T2D, the higher dose led to an average 13 per cent weight loss compared to 10 per cent with 2.4 mg and 3.9 per cent with placebo, along with notable reductions in blood sugar, waist circumference, and cholesterol levels.

The trials showed the higher dose was generally well tolerated. Common side effects included mild gastrointestinal issues such as nausea and diarrhoea, which typically resolved without serious complications or dropouts. No increase in severe hypoglycemia or major adverse events was observed.

Researchers said the higher dose could help more people meet weight-loss goals and reduce obesity-related health risks, while calling for further studies to assess long-term benefits and safety.