A Phase 3 trial has revealed that oral semaglutide is effective in adolescents diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. The PIONEER TEENS study showed a 0.83% reduction in HbA1c levels compared to placebo over 26 weeks in patients aged 10 to 17. The therapy maintained a safety profile consistent with prior semaglutide studies.
The 52-week, placebo-controlled trial involved 132 patients already on background treatments like metformin or insulin. This highlights oral semaglutide's potential as an add-on therapy in clinical practice.
Martin Holst Lange, Executive Vice President of R&D at Novo Nordisk, stated, "These results confirm that oral semaglutide is an effective treatment option for children and adolescents with type 2 diabetes who require glycaemic control beyond that provided by the current standard of care." The prevalence of type 2 diabetes in younger populations has significantly increased, yet treatment options remain limited. Projections suggest cases among young people could rise nearly eightfold by 2060.
This development occurs amidst increasing competition in the incretin market. Eli Lilly has introduced its oral GLP-1 therapy, orforglipron, for weight loss in adults. The company also reported Phase 3 results for its injectable therapy tirzepatide in adolescents, showing greater HbA1c reductions and BMI decreases than oral semaglutide. However, oral semaglutide's convenience could make it a more accessible option for younger patients.