A peer-reviewed study released on Monday reveals that an oral weight loss drug developed by Pfizer demonstrates similar efficacy and faster results compared to Novo Nordisk’s Ozempic injection. The phase two clinical trial included 411 adults with Type 2 diabetes who were either given Pfizer’s pill, danuglipron, twice a day or a placebo. The study found that patients who took a 120-milligram dosage of danuglipron lost an average of 10 pounds (4.60 kilograms) over a 16-week period.
In comparison, a phase three clinical trial on Ozempic showed that adults using a 1-milligram injection lost an average of 9.9 pounds (4.53 kilograms) over 30 weeks. The results suggest that Pfizer’s drug may be equally effective for weight loss as Ozempic, while offering the advantage of being an oral treatment option rather than an injection. Both danuglipron and Ozempic are glucagon-like peptide-1 antagonists, belonging to a class of drugs that mimic a gut hormone called GLP-1, signaling fullness to the brain. These drugs are also beneficial in managing Type 2 diabetes by promoting insulin release and reducing blood sugar levels.
Pfizer’s entry into the weight loss drug market comes as Novo Nordisk’s Ozempic and Wegovy have gained attention for their weight loss effects. These drugs have been sought after by celebrities, social media influencers, and even Elon Musk for shedding unwanted weight. However, concerns have been raised about the perpetuation of a dangerous diet culture that prioritizes weight loss and thinness. Additionally, some patients who discontinue these drugs experience difficulty in controlling weight rebound.
With over 2 in 5 adults having obesity and 1 in 11 adults having severe obesity, the search for effective weight loss solutions has become a priority for public health authorities and pharmaceutical companies. Pfizer’s promising results from the clinical trial provide hope for an alternative oral treatment option that could potentially address the global obesity epidemic more conveniently. Further research and development will be necessary to assess the long-term effectiveness and safety of Pfizer’s weight loss drug and its potential impact on individuals struggling with obesity.