Swedish scientists have developed a new oral diabetes medication that helps the body burn fat, control blood sugar, and maintain muscle mass—working differently from popular injectable GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic.
Unlike GLP-1 medications, which primarily reduce appetite, this new drug boosts metabolism in the muscles.
The study, led by researchers at Karolinska Institutet and Stockholm University, included preclinical experiments in animals and a small human trial with 48 healthy adults and 25 people with type 2 diabetes. Results showed the medication effectively controlled blood glucose, increased fat burning, and preserved muscle mass in animals, while demonstrating strong safety and tolerability in humans.
Researchers noted that the drug had fewer side effects than GLP-1s such as semaglutide and tirzepatide, which can cause appetite loss, gastrointestinal issues, and muscle wasting.
The experimental compound is a new form of beta-2 agonist, designed to support muscle function without overstimulating the heart—a safety concern with earlier versions. Findings were published this week in the journal Cell.
Because the drug works through a different mechanism than appetite-suppressing therapies, it could be used alone or alongside GLP-1 treatments, the researchers said.
“Our results point to a future where we can improve metabolic health without losing muscle mass,” said Tore Bengtsson, professor at the Department of Molecular Bioscience at Stockholm University. “Muscles are important in both type 2 diabetes and obesity, and muscle mass is directly linked to life expectancy.”
Shane C. Wright, assistant professor at Karolinska Institutet, described the medication as potentially “of great importance” for patients with type 2 diabetes and obesity. “Our substance appears to promote healthy weight loss, and patients do not need injections,” he added.
Dr. Trey Wickham, interim chief of Endocrinology, Diabetes & Metabolism at VCU Health, who was not involved in the study, said the drug’s mechanism could address metabolic issues seen with previous weight-loss therapies, such as the loss of both fat and muscle tissue. He cautioned, however, that larger, long-term trials are needed to confirm safety and efficacy in humans.
The researchers acknowledged limitations, noting that mouse studies cannot fully capture the complexity of human metabolic diseases. Further structural studies are needed to understand precisely how the drug works.
“Our phase 1 data show the drug is well-tolerated, but conclusive clinical evidence on its effect on glucose metabolism is still lacking,” the team said.
The developer, Atrogi AB, plans to move forward with a larger phase 2 trial, including a more diverse population and individuals with obesity.
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