Affiliation:
1. Novo Nordisk A/S Søborg Denmark
2. Parexel International GmbH Berlin Germany
3. Center for Clinical Metabolic Research, Gentofte Hospital University of Copenhagen Hellerup Denmark
4. Steno Diabetes Center Copenhagen Herlev Denmark
5. Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences University of Copenhagen Copenhagen Denmark
Abstract
AbstractAimTo investigate the effects of once‐daily oral semaglutide 50 mg on energy intake, appetite, control of eating and gastric emptying.MethodsA clinical pharmacology, double‐blind study was conducted in 61 adults with obesity randomized to once‐daily oral semaglutide (dose‐escalated to 50 mg) or placebo for 20 weeks. Energy intake was measured during an ad libitum lunch, and participant‐reported appetite ratings and Control of Eating Questionnaire responses were assessed. Gastric emptying was measured using paracetamol absorption following a standardized breakfast.ResultsThe relative change from baseline in ad libitum energy intake at week 20 (primary endpoint) was −39.2% points (95% confidence interval −59.0%, −19.4%) with semaglutide compared with placebo. Body weight was reduced by 9.8% with semaglutide and by 1.5% with placebo. Semaglutide reduced hunger, increased fullness and satiety, and was associated with fewer food cravings and better control of eating versus placebo. No statistically significant difference in gastric emptying was observed at week 20.ConclusionsIn participants with obesity, once‐daily oral semaglutide 50 mg reduced energy intake, body weight and appetite, and improved control of eating. There was no evidence of delayed gastric emptying at week 20, as measured through paracetamol absorption.