In a nutshell
This study investigated whether semaglutide could improve the function of beta cells and glycemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes. The study concluded that once-weekly treatment with semaglutide improved beta cell function and glycemic control in these patients.
Some background
Beta cells are located in the pancreas and are responsible for producing insulin (the hormone needed to break down glucose taken in from food). Patients with type 2 diabetes develop reduced beta cell mass and dysfunction. This makes it more difficult to achieve glycemic (blood glucose) control.
Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs) are therapies that have been shown to improve beta cell function in patients with type 2 diabetes. Semaglutide is a new GLP-1RA under investigation. Whether it improves beta cell function and glycemic control is unclear.
Methods & findings
75 patients with type 2 diabetes were included in this study. Patients were randomly selected to receive once-weekly semaglutide or placebo (substance with no active effect) which was administered over a 12-week period. This was followed by a 5-week observation period. 12 healthy adults were also included in the study. They did not receive treatment.
Patients treated with semaglutide showed increased insulin sensitivity and production after 12 weeks. They also displayed increased beta cell responsiveness which indicated improved function. Semaglutide was also associated with significant weight loss during the trial.
51.4% of patients treated with semaglutide experienced side effects. The most common were nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
The bottom line
This study concluded that semaglutide can increase beta cell function and improve glycemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes.
The fine print
The patients in this study were white so it may not translate to other ethnicities. The duration of the study was relatively short and in a small cohort of patients; long-term effects of semaglutide needs further investigation in larger studies.
Published By :
Diabetologia
Date :
May 20, 2017
