Novo Nordisk, the company behind semaglutide (Ozempic, Wegovy), is developing a next-generation oral medication called amycretin that combines two distinct hormonal mechanisms in a single pill. Early trial data suggests it may achieve weight loss results that surpass even injectable semaglutide.
What Is Amycretin?
Amycretin is an oral co-agonist that simultaneously activates two receptors: the GLP-1 receptor (the same target as semaglutide) and the amylin receptor. Amylin is a hormone co-secreted with insulin by the pancreatic beta cells. It slows gastric emptying, reduces appetite, and suppresses glucagon secretion — complementary mechanisms to those of GLP-1.
By combining both mechanisms in a single oral tablet, amycretin aims to achieve greater efficacy than either mechanism alone, while maintaining the convenience of an oral formulation.
Early Clinical Trial Results
In a Phase 1 trial published in 2024, amycretin demonstrated remarkable weight loss results. Participants receiving the highest dose achieved an average weight loss of approximately 13% of body weight over 12 weeks — a rate that, if sustained, would substantially exceed the weight loss seen with oral semaglutide (Rybelsus) and approach that of injectable semaglutide.
Blood glucose improvements were also significant, with meaningful reductions in HbA1c observed across all dose groups.
Amycretin is currently in Phase 2 clinical trials. Phase 1 results are promising but involve small numbers of participants over short timeframes. Larger, longer trials are needed to confirm efficacy, establish the safety profile, and determine optimal dosing. Regulatory approval is likely several years away.
The Significance of an Oral Formulation
One of the most significant barriers to GLP-1 medication uptake is the requirement for weekly injections. Many people with diabetes or obesity are reluctant to begin injectable therapy, and the needle-free option of an oral medication could dramatically expand access to this class of treatment.
Oral semaglutide (Rybelsus) already exists, but its absorption is limited and it requires strict administration protocols (taken on an empty stomach with a small amount of water, 30 minutes before food). Amycretin’s oral formulation uses different absorption technology that Novo Nordisk hopes will be more convenient and effective.
How It Compares to the Competition
| Medication | Mechanism | Route | Weight Loss |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semaglutide (Ozempic/Wegovy) | GLP-1 | Weekly injection | ~15–17% |
| Tirzepatide (Mounjaro) | GLP-1 + GIP | Weekly injection | ~20–22% |
| Oral semaglutide (Rybelsus) | GLP-1 | Daily tablet | ~5% |
| Amycretin (pipeline) | GLP-1 + Amylin | Daily tablet | ~13%+ (early data) |
Amycretin represents a genuinely exciting development in diabetes and obesity pharmacology. Its dual GLP-1 and amylin mechanism, combined with an oral formulation, could offer superior weight loss and glucose control in a convenient tablet. However, it remains in early clinical development, and several years of trials are needed before it could reach patients.
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