In a randomized phase 3a study published in Diabetes Care, those taking oral semaglutide monotherapy experienced superior and clinically significant improvements in A1c and weight loss compared to those taking a placebo.

Semaglutide (Ozempic) is currently only available as a once a week injectable, belonging to the GLP-1 Receptor Agonists classification. This class of medications is referred to as “Incretin Mimetics” since they imitate the action of gut hormones, causing satiation, post prandial glucose lowering and slowed gastric emptying. They have the added benefit of associated weight loss.

One drawback for people starting on semaglutide and all GLP-1 RAs, is that they currently can only be administered via injection.

Download FREE Diabetes Injectables PocketCard for more info on GLP-1 RAs.

The findings, based on the Peptide Innovation for Early Diabetes Treatment, or PIONEER, study, found that those who took either oral semaglutide 3 mg, 7 mg or 14 mg once a day for 26 weeks had significantly lower A1C and improved body weight, compared with those on placebo.

This phase 3a trial involving 703 people with type 2 diabetes provides hope that this medication class may be effective when administered orally.

The findings also showed that mild to moderate transient gastrointestinal incidents were the most common adverse events with the oral form of this GLP-1 receptor agonist.

Download FREE Diabetes Injectables PocketCard for more info on GLP-1 RAs. Join our Diabetes Educator Course for a 3 Day Review of Medications and More!

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