Researchers and pharmaceutical companies continue to search for new ways to help people achieve a healthy weight. Medications like Saxenda, Wegovy, and Mounjaro are already used for weight management, but the development of new options continues. A promising candidate in this search is Survodutide.
What is Survodutide?
Survodutide is an experimental drug that affects two receptors in the body: the glucagon and GLP-1 receptors. These receptors play an important role in metabolism and appetite regulation. Because Survodutide simultaneously activates both receptors, research is being conducted into whether it can help to reduce hunger and burn more energy. This could potentially support weight loss. The initial research results show positive effects on both weight loss and metabolism. For example, patients with type II diabetes or obesity lost an average of 14.9% of their body weight after 46 weeks of medication.
Differences between Survodutide, Tirzepatide, and Semaglutide
The main difference between Survodutide, Tirzepatide (Mounjaro), and Semaglutide (Wegovy) lies in their mechanism of action.
- Semaglutide (Wegovy) activates one receptor: GLP-1.
- Survodutide activates two receptors: GLP-1 and glucagon.
- Tirzepatide (Mounjaro) activates two receptors: GLP-1 and GIP.
What these medications have in common is that they all help to reduce appetite and regulate blood sugar levels. Additionally, both Tirzepatide and Survodutide stimulate energy expenditure, which may contribute to additional weight loss. Tirzepatide also has an effect on fat burning.
Research into MASH
In addition to its potential role in weight loss, Survodutide is also being investigated as a treatment for metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH), a serious liver condition often found in people with obesity and diabetes. In a phase II study, 83% of the investigated patients showed a possible improvement in their liver health. This suggests that the drug could potentially have broader applications, but further research is necessary to confirm these findings.
Survodutide is still in the research phase and has not yet been approved for general use. Further studies will have to determine if and when this drug will become available to patients.
Nicolette studied Medicine at the University of Amsterdam. After conducting clinical research for several years into the development of diabetes in overweight individuals, she spent years guiding people with extreme obesity before and after gastric bypass surgery, with a strong focus on lifestyle coaching. With the advent of various weight-loss supporting medications, Nicolette also specialized in this area. Her combination of medical knowledge, scientific background, and years of practical experience enables her to find the most suitable and effective treatment for you. According to Nicolette, lifestyle changes are crucial in achieving and maintaining weight loss. Furthermore, a healthy lifestyle is not only important for weight reduction but also leads to an improvement in physical and mental health. "I believe that sustainable weight loss revolves around the right balance between medical support and lifestyle change. Medication can be a powerful aid, but real change occurs when we work together on habits that suit you and that you can maintain in the long term. Through my years of experience with people living with overweight and obesity, I know that every story is different. What works for one person may not work for another. That is why I take the time to listen to your situation and together find the most appropriate treatment – so that you not only lose weight but also feel truly better, both physically and mentally. Weight loss goes beyond a number on the scale. It's about energy, health, self-confidence, and quality of life. And you don't make that journey alone with us."
