Cagrisema
The Next Evolution in Weight Loss
Cagrisema combines semaglutide with cagrilintide for unprecedented weight loss results. Here's everything you need to know about Novo Nordisk's most promising obesity drug.
What Is Cagrisema?
Cagrisema is Novo Nordisk's combination drug that pairs semaglutide (the GLP-1 agonist in Ozempic and Wegovy) with cagrilintide, a long-acting amylin analog. This creates a first-in-class dual-action obesity treatment.
Why two drugs? GLP-1 and amylin work through different pathways in the brain to reduce appetite. By targeting both simultaneously, Cagrisema produces significantly greater weight loss than either drug alone.
Administration: Once-weekly subcutaneous injection, same as Ozempic or Wegovy. Single injection contains both compounds.
How Cagrisema Works
Semaglutide (GLP-1)
Cagrilintide (Amylin)
- • Activates amylin receptors in the brain
- • Different satiety pathway than GLP-1
- • Further reduces food intake
- • Slows gastric emptying via different mechanism
- • Adds ~6-8% additional weight loss on top of GLP-1
Combined Effect
Together, semaglutide + cagrilintide produce 22-25% average body weight loss — approximately 50% more effective than semaglutide alone. This represents the largest weight loss seen in any approved obesity medication to date.
REDEFINE Trial Results
The REDEFINE clinical trial program includes multiple Phase 3 studies evaluating Cagrisema in adults with obesity or overweight with weight-related comorbidities.
In REDEFINE 1, participants without diabetes lost an average of 22.7% of their body weight over 68 weeks. Some participants lost over 25%.
In REDEFINE 2, participants with Type 2 diabetes achieved 15.6% weight loss — historically difficult population to treat with weight loss drugs.
Cagrisema outperformed Wegovy (semaglutide 2.4mg) in direct comparison, showing approximately 6-8 percentage points greater weight loss.
Expected Dosing Schedule
Based on clinical trials, Cagrisema follows a dose-escalation schedule similar to other GLP-1 medications:
Semaglutide Component
- Start: 0.25mg weekly
- Escalate every 4 weeks
- Target: 2.4mg weekly
Cagrilintide Component
- Start: 0.25mg weekly
- Escalate every 4 weeks
- Target: 2.4mg weekly
Note: Final dosing may vary based on FDA approval. Both compounds are combined in a single injection.
Side Effects
Common (Similar to GLP-1s)
- • Nausea (especially during dose escalation)
- • Vomiting
- • Diarrhea
- • Constipation
- • Injection site reactions
Notes from Trials
- • GI side effects similar to semaglutide alone
- • Most side effects mild to moderate
- • Decreased over time
- • Low discontinuation rates
- • No unexpected safety signals
FDA Approval Timeline
Cagrisema vs Current Options
| Drug | Mechanism | Weight Loss | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cagrisema | GLP-1 + Amylin | 22-25% | Awaiting FDA |
| Wegovy | GLP-1 only | ~15-17% | FDA Approved |
| Zepbound | GLP-1 + GIP | ~18-21% | FDA Approved |
| Ozempic | GLP-1 only | ~10-14% | FDA Approved |
Frequently Asked Questions
When will Cagrisema be available?
Novo Nordisk submitted Cagrisema for FDA approval in late 2024. If approved on standard timeline, it could be available by late 2025 or early 2026. Availability may vary by region and insurance coverage.
How much will Cagrisema cost?
Pricing hasn't been announced. Given that it combines two novel compounds and offers superior efficacy, expect pricing similar to or higher than current GLP-1 medications ($1,000-1,500/month without insurance).
Can I switch from Ozempic/Wegovy to Cagrisema?
Clinical guidance will be established upon approval. Since Cagrisema contains semaglutide, transitions from current semaglutide medications will likely be possible under physician supervision.
Is Cagrisema better than Mounjaro/Zepbound?
Both show excellent weight loss. Cagrisema's ~22-25% may be slightly higher than tirzepatide's ~18-21%, though direct head-to-head trials haven't been conducted. Individual response varies significantly.
Track Your Weight Loss Journey
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