The takeaway
An experimental oral GLP medicine produced weight loss, but liver safety findings stopped its clinical development. A promising early result is only part of the story.
What researchers tested
The report describes a 28-day study with 37 participants and a 12-week trial with 167 adults with obesity or overweight. Both compared TERN-601 with placebo.
Development stopped after liver safety findings
28-day study
37 participants
12-week trial
167 adults randomized
Liver findings
Three possible cases; two consistent on expert review
Original visual based on the study.
| Group or measure | Result |
|---|---|
| 28-day study | 37 participants |
| 12-week trial | 167 adults randomized |
| Liver findings | Three possible cases; two consistent on expert review |
What happened?
In the longer trial, estimated average weight loss ranged from 2.1% to 4.9% across treatment groups, versus 0.3% with placebo. The analysis used available measurements without replacing missing data; about one-quarter taking TERN-601 stopped treatment early.
Three participants developed liver-test abnormalities consistent with possible drug-induced liver injury. Independent review found two cases consistent with that diagnosis; the third had another possible explanation. One case was reported as a serious drug-related event. The abnormalities resolved without treatment.
Why it matters
The liver findings emerged after the shorter study’s timeframe. Neither early weight loss nor a small trial can establish long-term safety. This finding concerns TERN-601, not proof that every GLP medicine has the same risk.
Who funded it?
Terns Pharmaceuticals funded and participated in the research and publication.