Novo Nordisk older obesity drug shows potential against Alzheimer's in small trial

A recent clinical trial has shown that an older obesity drug from Novo Nordisk, known for its weight loss benefits, may have a positive effect on brain health in patients with mild Alzheimer's disease. The trial, which involved just 204 patients in Britain, provides an early indication of how GLP-1 receptor agonist drugs might work on challenging brain disorders.

Presented at the Alzheimer's Association International Conference, the results revealed that the drug liraglutide appeared to reduce brain volume loss by nearly 50 per cent in areas responsible for memory, learning, language, and decision-making compared to a placebo. These findings were derived from secondary endpoints of the study, although the primary goal—measuring changes in cerebral glucose metabolic rate—was not met.

Rebecca Edelmeyer, senior director of scientific engagement at the Alzheimer's Association, described the results as "really intriguing," marking the first time this type of intervention has shown such outcomes in a clinical trial.

Novo Nordisk is not directly involved in the trial but is currently testing a more advanced GLP-1 drug, semaglutide, in patients with early Alzheimer's. These ongoing trials, which began in 2021 and involve thousands of participants, are expected to yield results by 2025.

The findings have sparked interest due to the role GLP-1 drugs play in addressing various aspects of the metabolic system implicated in Alzheimer's, including amyloid protein buildup and inflammation. While the trial was not designed to measure cognitive benefits directly, it raises hopes that improving glucose utilisation and reducing inflammation could slow the progression of Alzheimer's disease.

This small but promising trial opens new avenues for research into the repurposing of obesity drugs for treating Alzheimer's, a condition that remains one of the most challenging neurological disorders.