Cagrilintide
A long-acting amylin analog often studied in combination with Semaglutide for enhanced weight loss.
Common Dosage
Weekly injection (titrated)
Category
Weight Loss
- Satiety
- Weight loss synergy
- Glucose control
Cagrilintide is a long-acting amylin analogue developed by Novo Nordisk to be used in combination with semaglutide (the CagriSema combination). Amylin is a pancreatic hormone co-secreted with insulin that promotes satiety, slows gastric emptying, and regulates glucagon. Pramlintide (Symlin) was the first approved amylin analogue, but required multiple daily injections. Cagrilintide was engineered for once-weekly administration, enabling its combination with once-weekly semaglutide.
Cagrilintide activates amylin receptors in the hypothalamus and brainstem, reducing meal size and frequency by signaling satiety through pathways distinct from GLP-1. The combination with semaglutide targets two separate satiety pathways simultaneously — a complementary mechanism similar to tirzepatide's dual GLP-1/GIP approach but through a different pair of hormones.
- Obesity management in combination with semaglutide (CagriSema)
- Type 2 diabetes glycemic control
- Satiety signaling research
- Post-bariatric surgery weight maintenance
SCALE STEP Trial
Early Phase 2 trials of CagriSema (cagrilintide 2.4mg + semaglutide 2.4mg weekly) demonstrated weight loss approaching 15–17% — potentially competitive with tirzepatide. Phase 3 trials were ongoing as of 2025 with results expected to establish its position relative to the broader GLP-1 class.
- Still in late-stage trials — not FDA-approved
- GI side effects expected to be at least as common as semaglutide alone
- Amylin receptor activation effects on bone density (amylin has complex bone metabolism effects) require monitoring
- Research peptide versions are untested and uncontrolled
- Nausea
- GI distress