Science in 2025 - The events to watch for in the coming year

Part 1 - Weight-loss wonder drugs

1 - Weight-loss wonder drugs – The basics

In recent years, the field of weight-loss medications has experienced significant advancements, introducing a new generation of treatments that offer hope to individuals struggling with obesity. These developments are particularly relevant to high school students, as understanding them can promote informed health choices and awareness of emerging medical options.

Understanding GLP-1 Agonists

Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) agonists are a class of medications that mimic the GLP-1 hormone, which plays a crucial role in regulating appetite and blood sugar levels. By activating GLP-1 receptors in the body, these drugs enhance feelings of fullness, reduce hunger, and improve insulin secretion, leading to weight loss and better blood sugar control.

Notable Weight-Loss Medications

1. Wegovy (Semaglutide): Developed by Novo Nordisk, Wegovy is an injectable GLP-1 agonist approved for weight management. Clinical trials have demonstrated that individuals using Wegovy can achieve an average weight loss of approximately 15% over 68 weeks.

2. Orforglipron: Eli Lilly's orforglipron is an oral, non-peptide GLP-1 receptor agonist currently under investigation. Phase II trials have shown promising results, with participants experiencing weight reductions ranging from 8.6% to 12.6% over 26 weeks. Its oral administration could offer a more convenient and potentially cost-effective alternative to injectable treatments.

3. Retatrutide: Also from Eli Lilly, retatrutide is a triple agonist targeting GLP-1, GIP, and glucagon receptors. In Phase II trials, participants on the highest dose achieved an unprecedented weight loss of up to 24.2% over 11 months, surpassing the efficacy of currently available medications.

4. Maridebart Cafraglutide (MariTide): Developed by Amgen, MariTide is a bispecific molecule that activates the GLP-1 receptor and antagonizes the GIP receptor. It is designed for less frequent dosing, potentially as a monthly injection. Recent trials have shown weight loss of up to 20% over a year, though some results have not fully met investor expectations.

Mechanisms of Action

These medications work by influencing hormonal pathways that regulate appetite and metabolism:

• GLP-1 Receptor Activation: Enhances satiety and slows gastric emptying, reducing food intake.

• GIP Receptor Modulation: Affects insulin secretion and energy balance.

• Glucagon Receptor Activation: Increases energy expenditure and influences glucose metabolism.

Considerations and Future Outlook

While these medications represent significant progress in obesity treatment, they are not standalone solutions. Effective weight management also involves lifestyle changes, including a balanced diet and regular physical activity. Additionally, the long-term safety and accessibility of these treatments are subjects of ongoing research.

For general users, understanding these developments underscores the importance of scientific research in addressing complex health issues like obesity. It also highlights the need for a holistic approach to health, combining medical interventions with healthy lifestyle choices.

2 - Weight-loss wonder drugs

Following the runaway success of ‘miracle’ drug Wegovy (semaglutide) and other GLP-1 agonists, 2025 is likely to bring results and approvals for a new wave of treatments targeting obesity. The pharmaceutical firm Eli Lilly will wrap up a phase III trial for its oral pill orforglipron, evaluating its long-term safety in people with type 2 diabetes. The drug is easier to produce and potentially cheaper than existing treatments.

Trials for Eli Lilly’s triple-action drug, retatrutide, will continue throughout 2025. In its phase II trial, retatrutide showed unprecedented efficacy, with people on the highest dose experiencing a 24.2% weight loss over 11 months (currently available drugs tend to yield around

Episode 3726 - Jan 5 - Tiếng Anh - Khoa học năm 2025 - Phần 1 - Thuốc giảm cân kỳ diệu - Vina Technology at AI time

Vina Technology at AI time - Công nghệ Việt Nam thời AI

Episode 3726 - Jan 5 - Tiếng Anh - Khoa học năm 2025 - Phần 1 - Thuốc giảm cân kỳ diệu - Vina Technology at AI time