Cagrilintide
NN9838
Cagrilintide is a long-acting amylin receptor agonist developed by Novo Nordisk, designed to mimic the satiety-inducing effects of the naturally occurring hormone amylin. It is administered as a once-weekly subcutaneous injection and is currently in Phase 3 clinical trials. Cagrilintide is a key component of the combination therapy CagriSema, paired with semaglutide for enhanced weight loss.
Mechanism of Action
Long-acting amylin analog that slows gastric emptying, promotes satiety, and reduces postprandial glucagon secretion. Works synergistically with GLP-1 agonists.
Research Protocols
For research purposes only. Not medical advice.
Research protocols use 1.2mg to 4.5mg weekly. Dose escalation over 16 weeks. Often studied in combination with semaglutide.
Research Notes
Clinical Research Status
Cagrilintide is in Phase 3 development as both a standalone agent and as part of the CagriSema combination with semaglutide. The REDEFINE Phase 2 trial demonstrated dose-dependent weight loss of up to 10.8% over 26 weeks as monotherapy. Novo Nordisk is positioning it primarily as a combination component rather than pursuing standalone approval initially.
Key Published Findings
Phase 2 data showed cagrilintide 4.5mg weekly produced significantly greater weight loss than placebo, with a distinct mechanism from GLP-1 agonists acting through amylin pathways. Amylin analogs slow gastric emptying, reduce glucagon secretion, and promote satiety through area postrema signaling. The combination with semaglutide showed additive effects beyond either agent alone in early trials.
Safety Profile
The most common adverse effects are gastrointestinal, including nausea and decreased appetite, consistent with amylin receptor activation. Injection site reactions have been reported but are generally mild and transient. Long-term safety data is still accumulating as Phase 3 trials continue, with particular attention to pancreatic safety signals.
Comparison to Related Compounds
Unlike pramlintide (Symlin), which requires three-times-daily dosing, cagrilintide's acylation technology enables once-weekly administration. It works through a complementary mechanism to GLP-1 agonists, targeting amylin rather than incretin pathways. The combination approach with semaglutide represents a multi-receptor strategy similar in concept to tirzepatide's dual GIP/GLP-1 action but using a physically separate co-formulation.
Community Observations
Research interest in cagrilintide centers primarily on its role within CagriSema rather than as a standalone compound. The amylin mechanism is understood to primarily enhance early meal satiety, complementing GLP-1's effects on sustained fullness. Clinical trial participants have reported that the combination produces qualitatively different appetite suppression compared to GLP-1 monotherapy.
Half-Life
~7-10 days
Reconstitution
Bacteriostatic water (BAC)
Storage
Lyophilized
Refrigerate 2-8C. Protect from light.
Reconstituted
Refrigerate 2-8C. Use within 28 days.
US Legal Status
Also Known As
PeptideVault provides research-based summaries for informational purposes only. We do not host, distribute, or endorse vendor documentation. All certificates of analysis, GMP certificates, and vendor communications must be requested and verified directly by the buyer. Nothing on this platform constitutes legal, medical, or professional advice. Users are solely responsible for verifying vendor credentials and ensuring compliance with all applicable local, state, and federal laws before purchasing any research chemicals. Use of this platform constitutes acceptance of full personal responsibility.
Read full disclaimer