A new weight loss injection, MariTide, has delivered stunning results in its first major trial, going head-to-head with drugs like Wegovy and Mounjaro. These medications, part of a class called GLP-1 drugs, are already popular for helping people with diabetes control blood sugar and for aiding weight loss in those with obesity or heart risks. But MariTide’s unique monthly dosing and strong performance are turning heads in the medical world.
Unlike its weekly competitors, MariTide uses a monoclonal antibody to stay active in the body longer, meaning patients only need one shot a month. Dr. Michelle Ponder, a medical expert at Duke University, said this is a game-changer, especially for diabetes patients who already deal with daily insulin injections. Cutting down on shots, even by a few each month, can make life easier and encourage people to stick with their treatment.
The trial involved 600 participants, divided into two groups: one with obesity and Type 2 diabetes, and another with obesity alone. For a year, they received either one of three MariTide doses or a placebo, given monthly. The outcomes were remarkable. People with obesity alone lost up to 20% of their body weight on MariTide, compared to just 2.6% for those on the placebo.
Participants with diabetes saw a 17% drop in body weight with MariTide, while the placebo group lost only 1.4%. Jay Bradner, a lead researcher at Amgen, praised the drug’s ability to sustain weight loss over the year without leveling off, while also improving heart health factors. He said MariTide’s monthly dosing could help patients stay on track, setting the stage for bigger trials in the works.
These results mark an exciting leap forward in weight loss science. MariTide’s blend of convenience and effectiveness offers new hope for tackling obesity and related conditions. As researchers dig deeper, this monthly shot could reshape how we approach weight management, making it simpler and more accessible for those who need it most.
