New Diabetes Drug Ecnoglutide Melts Fat at Double Rate of Competitors

A new drug named ecnoglutide has been developed to combat diabetes and obesity, demonstrating the ability to melt fat at double the rate of existing GLP-1 receptor agonists. This innovative injection not only outperforms competitors like Ozempic and Mounjaro in terms of efficacy but is also quicker and cheaper to produce. In clinical trials, patients receiving ecnoglutide experienced significantly greater weight loss compared to those on dulaglutide, another commonly prescribed diabetes medication.

Ecnoglutide is classified as a GLP-1 receptor agonist, similar to semaglutide, which is found in weight loss treatments such as Wegovy. A recent study, published in The Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology, revealed that individuals with type 2 diabetes taking ecnoglutide lost nearly twice as much weight as those on dulaglutide over a 52-week period. Participants in the ecnoglutide group lost an average of 5.2% to 5.7% of their body weight, compared to 2.8% for the dulaglutide group. This finding marks a substantial advancement in the management of type 2 diabetes and obesity.

Study Overview and Effectiveness

The research was conducted by scientists from Fudan University and Hangzhou Sciwind Biosciences in China, involving over 600 adults diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. Participants were aged between 18 and 75 years, had a body mass index (BMI) ranging from 20 to 35, and had previously been treated with metformin. They were randomly assigned to receive either ecnoglutide or dulaglutide injections weekly.

Results showed that participants receiving ecnoglutide experienced an approximate 1.9% drop in average blood sugar levels, while those on dulaglutide saw a decrease of 1.65%. The study authors emphasized that these findings indicate ecnoglutide as a novel and effective treatment option for managing type 2 diabetes, addressing previously unmet needs in diabetes care.

Researchers noted that ecnoglutide operates as a “biased GLP-1 RA,” selectively targeting pathways that enhance insulin production and lower blood sugar without diminishing receptor activity over time. In contrast, dulaglutide targets both pathways, which can lead to reduced receptor responsiveness as treatment continues.

Manufacturing and Market Implications

One of the significant advantages of ecnoglutide is its simpler manufacturing process, allowing for quicker and more cost-effective production compared to other GLP-1 receptor agonists. The researchers stated that the manufacturing process for ecnoglutide involves fewer and less complex steps than that for semaglutide.

The introduction of ecnoglutide comes at a time when prices for existing weight loss medications are rising. Earlier this month, drug maker Eli Lilly announced an increase in the price of Mounjaro, effective from September 1, 2025, resulting in a near doubling of costs in UK private clinics. This price hike has led to increased demand for ecnoglutide as patients seek more affordable alternatives.

Although weight loss injections have gained popularity for their effectiveness, they do come with potential side effects. Common adverse reactions include gastrointestinal issues such as nausea and diarrhea, which typically resolve over time. Serious side effects, although rare, can include pancreatitis, kidney problems, and allergic reactions.

As research continues, the authors of the study suggest further exploration of ecnoglutide’s efficacy across diverse populations and its potential in combination with other diabetes medications. The future of ecnoglutide appears promising, potentially transforming diabetes management and offering a viable alternative to current treatments.