The takeaway
A 2018 trial helped establish semaglutide's weight-loss potential. It tested daily injections, so its doses should not be confused with weekly treatment.
What researchers tested
The phase 2 trial randomized 957 adults with obesity, without diabetes. Participants received dietary and activity counselling alongside study treatment.
Percent of starting weight; daily injections
Original visual based on the study.
| Group or measure | Result |
|---|---|
| Daily semaglutide 0.05 mg | 6.0% |
| Daily semaglutide 0.1 mg | 8.6% |
| Daily semaglutide 0.2 mg | 11.6% |
| Daily semaglutide 0.3 mg | 11.2% |
| Daily semaglutide 0.4 mg | 13.8% |
| Daily liraglutide 3 mg | 7.8% |
| Placebo | 2.3% |
The results
At 52 weeks, estimated average losses across five semaglutide dose groups ranged from 6.0% to 13.8%, compared with 2.3% for placebo and 7.8% for liraglutide. The range describes group averages, not individual outcomes.
What to keep in mind
Digestive symptoms, particularly nausea, were the most common adverse events and varied with dose. Weight measurements were available for 93% of participants; the analysis estimated missing values.
This is a historical dose-finding study, not a guide to choosing or converting doses. For a later weekly-treatment comparison, read STEP 8.
Novo Nordisk funded the trial.