Semaglutide a medication already known for its effectiveness in managing diabetes and promoting weight loss, has shown impressive results in a new study targeting knee osteoarthritis pain. In a phase 3 clinical trial, researchers administered weekly doses of 2.4 milligrams of semaglutide to participants, who experienced significant pain relief, improved mobility, and weight loss compared to a placebo group.
Knee osteoarthritis occurs when protective cartilage in the joints wears away, causing severe pain and stiffness. Obesity often worsens this condition, which is why semaglutide’s dual benefits of pain reduction and weight loss make it especially valuable. As a GLP-1 receptor agonist, semaglutide mimics hormones that help control appetite and reduce inflammation. In the study, participants receiving semaglutide lost an average of 13.7% of their body weight, compared to 3.2% for the placebo group, while their pain scores improved by 41.7 points.
Rheumatologist Henning Bliddal from Copenhagen University Hospital highlighted the drug’s impact, saying some participants experienced such significant pain relief that they no longer qualified for the study’s criteria. While these results are promising, it’s worth noting that the study was partly funded by Novo Nordisk, the manufacturer of semaglutide. Additionally, semaglutide is an expensive drug, and stopping the medication may lead to weight regain.
However, for those struggling with knee osteoarthritis, this study represents hope. As Bliddal explained, “Weight reduction along with physical activity is often a recommended approach to managing painful symptoms, but adherence can be challenging.” Semaglutide could help bridge this gap, enabling patients to pursue a more active, pain-free life. The study’s findings were published in the New England Journal of Medicine.
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