Scientists say they have developed a new weight-loss compound that boosts metabolism and improves blood sugar levels without the common side effects of popular drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy.
GLP-1 medications, such as Ozempic and Wegovy, have helped many people lose weight by affecting appetite through gut-brain communication. However, these drugs can lead to muscle loss, reduced appetite, and digestive issues.
The new compound works differently. Instead of altering hunger signals, it directly enhances metabolic activity in muscles. Previous animal studies showed the drug improves blood sugar control and body composition while avoiding the drawbacks often linked to GLP-1 treatments.
A recent human study involving 48 healthy volunteers and 25 people with type 2 diabetes suggests the treatment is safe and well tolerated.
“Our results point to a future where we can improve metabolic health without losing muscle mass,” said Tore Bengtsson, molecular biologist at Stockholm University and co-author of the study published in Cell. “Muscles are important in both type 2 diabetes and obesity, and muscle mass is directly linked to life expectancy.”
The drug targets receptors in smooth muscles throughout the body, promoting muscle function while avoiding overstimulation of the heart.
“This represents a completely new type of treatment and could be highly beneficial for patients with type 2 diabetes and obesity,” said Shane C. Wright from Karolinska Institutet. “It promotes healthy weight loss, and patients do not need injections.”
Because it works differently from GLP-1 drugs, the new compound could be used alone or alongside existing treatments, offering flexibility for patients.
Researchers plan larger Phase II clinical trials to confirm whether the benefits observed so far also apply to people living with type 2 diabetes or obesity.
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