Novo Nordisk has reported positive phase 2 trial results for its investigational drug zenagamtide, showing significant improvements in both blood sugar control and weight loss among adults with type 2 diabetes.
Zenagamtide, also known as amycretin, is an experimental treatment that combines glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and amylin receptor agonist mechanisms in a single molecule — a first for type 2 diabetes therapies currently under development. The drug is being studied in both oral and injectable forms for adults with type 2 diabetes as well as those living with overweight or obesity.
Martin Holst Lange, chief scientific officer and executive vice president, Research & Development at Novo Nordisk, “Zenagamtide is the first investigational treatment for type 2 diabetes to combine GLP-1 and amylin receptor agonist mechanisms of action in a single molecule.”
He added that the data strengthens evidence supporting zenagamtide’s potential to improve blood glucose control while also delivering meaningful weight reduction, potentially expanding treatment options for patients and healthcare professionals.
The latest phase 2 trial evaluated once-weekly subcutaneous zenagamtide in 262 adults whose type 2 diabetes was inadequately controlled despite treatment with metformin, with or without an SGLT2 inhibitor. Participants received doses ranging from 0.4 mg to 40 mg over 36 weeks.
Results showed a dose-dependent and statistically significant reduction in A1C levels from baseline to week 36 across all zenagamtide doses compared with placebo, with up to 89.1% achieving A1C below 7% and up to 76.2% achieved levels at or below 6.5%.
The findings suggest robust glycaemic efficacy, particularly considering that participants in the higher-dose groups were exposed to the maintenance doses for only a limited period — 20 mg for eight weeks and 40 mg for four weeks.
Zenagamtide also demonstrated significant weight-loss benefits. Participants receiving the highest investigated dose of 40 mg achieved mean body weight reductions of up to 14.6% at week 36, compared with 2.1% in the placebo group. Researchers noted that no weight-loss plateau was observed at the higher doses during the study period.
The safety and tolerability profile was consistent with other incretin- and amylin-based therapies. The most commonly reported side effects were gastrointestinal and were generally mild to moderate in severity.
The results were presented at the 2026 Scientific Sessions of the American Diabetes Association(ADA) in New Orleans, Louisiana. Following the encouraging results, Novo Nordisk plans to begin a phase 3 development programme for zenagamtide in adults with type 2 diabetes during the second half of 2026.
