New Novo Nordisk weight-loss drug outperforms Wegovy in clinical trial

Novo Nordisk has reported late-stage trial results showing that its new combination weight-loss drug, CagriSema, led to greater weight loss and improved blood sugar control than semaglutide (Wegovy) alone in adults living with type 2 diabetes.

In the 68-week REIMAGINE 2 trial involving 2,728 participants whose diabetes was not adequately controlled with metformin, weekly injections of CagriSema resulted in weight loss of up to 14.2 per cent, compared with 10.2 per cent in those receiving semaglutide 2.4 mg. Participants taking CagriSema also saw slightly greater improvements in long-term blood glucose control, with average HbA1c reductions of 1.91 percentage points compared with 1.76 percentage points with semaglutide.

CagriSema is a fixed-dose combination of semaglutide, a GLP-1 receptor agonist and cagrilintide, an amylin receptor agonist. Novo Nordisk says combining the two medicines enhances appetite regulation and improves metabolic control beyond either drug used alone. The average starting weight of participants was 101 kg and the average baseline HbA1c was 8.2 per cent.

The company reported that the benefits of CagriSema were consistent whether or not participants fully adhered to treatment, with those receiving the combination therapy continuing to show greater reductions in both weight and HbA1c than those treated with semaglutide alone. The results have not yet been published in a peer-reviewed journal and will be presented at a scientific conference later this year.

Novo Nordisk said the findings strengthen the case for CagriSema as a potential next-generation treatment option for people living with type 2 diabetes who also need support with weight management. Independent experts have welcomed the emergence of new treatment options but cautioned that the findings are early and based on manufacturer-led trials, with further independent studies needed to confirm long-term effectiveness and safety.

The company submitted an application to the US Food and Drug Administration in December 2025 seeking approval for CagriSema to support weight loss alongside diet and exercise. Further trials are ongoing to assess its use in people living with overweight and obesity and to compare its effectiveness and safety with tirzepatide.