AIM: To investigate the effects of once-weekly subcutaneous (s.c.) semaglutide 2.4 mg on gastric emptying, appetite, and energy intake in adults with obesity.
MATERIALS AND METHODS: A double-blind, parallel-group trial was conducted in 72 adults with obesity, randomized to once-weekly s.c. semaglutide (dose-escalated to 2.4 mg) or placebo for 20 weeks. Gastric emptying was assessed using paracetamol absorption following a standardized breakfast. Participant-reported appetite ratings and Control of Eating Questionnaire (CoEQ) responses were assessed, and energy intake was measured during ad libitum lunch.
RESULTS: The area under the concentration-time curve (AUC) for paracetamol 0 to 5 hours after a standardized meal (AUC0-5h,para ; primary endpoint) was increased by 8% (P = 0.005) with semaglutide 2.4 mg versus placebo at week 20 (non-significant when corrected for week 20 body weight; P = 0.12). No effect was seen on AUC0-1h,para , maximum observed paracetamol concentration, or time to maximum observed paracetamol concentration. Ad libitum energy intake was 35% lower with semaglutide versus placebo (1736 versus 2676 kJ; estimated treatment difference -940 kJ; P <0.0001). Semaglutide reduced hunger and prospective food consumption, and increased fullness and satiety when compared with placebo (all P <0.02). The CoEQ indicated better control of eating and fewer/weaker food cravings with semaglutide versus placebo (P <0.05). Body weight was reduced by 9.9% with semaglutide and 0.4% with placebo. Safety was consistent with the known profile of semaglutide.
CONCLUSIONS: In adults with obesity, once-weekly s.c. semaglutide 2.4 mg suppressed appetite, improved control of eating, and reduced food cravings, ad libitum energy intake and body weight versus placebo. There was no evidence of delayed gastric emptying at week 20, assessed indirectly via paracetamol absorption.
| Discipline Area | Score |
|---|---|
| Physician |  |
Physician rater
There are impressive short-term effects on appetite, satiety, food intake and weight. It would be important to know if the effects can be sustained long-term.
Physician rater
In adults with obesity, once-weekly s.c. semaglutide 2.4 mg after 20 weeks suppressed appetite, improved control of eating, reduced food cravings, ad libitum energy intake and body weight in comparison with controls on placebo.
Physician rater
This (sponsored) Phase 1 study of high-dose (2.4 mg) semaglutide for weight loss in persons without diabetes appears promising. It does highlight expectations for weight loss in persons with diabetes, though lower doses (up to 1 mg) are approved for that indication.
Physician rater
In 72 adults with obesity, there is evidence that the use of a weekly dose of semaglutide 2.4 mg, in comparison with placebo, has suppressed appetite, improved control of eating, and reduced food cravings, random energy intake and body weight. A larger rigorous RCT is needed to replicate this relevant finding. I would like to see a careful assessment of eating psychopathology than a self-reported CoEQ scale.
, McMaster University