In the ever-competitive world of weight loss medications, drugmakers are turning to amylin analogs as the next big thing in the market. These analogs offer promising weight loss benefits with potentially fewer tolerability issues compared to the current standard GLP-1s. Recent clinical studies have shown that amylin-based medications, especially when combined with other therapies, can deliver significant weight loss results.
As the field rapidly expands, major pharmaceutical companies are jumping on the amylin bandwagon. AbbVie recently acquired the rights to Gubra’s amylin analog GUBamy, Pfizer outbid Novo Nordisk for the clinical-stage Metsera and its amylin receptor agonist MET-233i, and AstraZeneca is progressing with its own amylin candidate, AZD6234.
However, Novo Nordisk, Eli Lilly, and Roche are leading the charge in amylin drug development. Novo Nordisk’s CagriSema, a combination of cagrilintide and the GLP-1 semaglutide, has shown promising results in phase 3 trials, with significant weight loss observed in participants. Eli Lilly’s eloralintide, a selective amylin receptor agonist, has also demonstrated impressive weight loss outcomes in phase 2 trials and is now moving into phase 3.
Roche’s petrelintide, licensed from Zealand Pharma, has shown modest weight loss results in early-phase testing but is being explored in combination therapies to maximize its efficacy. The company is also developing petrelintide in conjunction with other drugs to enhance its weight loss potential.
Overall, the race to develop effective amylin analogs for weight loss is heating up, with these pharmaceutical giants at the forefront of innovation in the obesity space. As they continue to push the boundaries of drug development, the future looks promising for those seeking new solutions for weight management.
